On the pitch at the San Siro, AC Milan are facing a crucial decision as striker Olivier Giroud is set off on his journey to Los Angeles FC: who will take over the glory-honoured No.9 shirt? This is not only a transfer story, but also a new chapter in Milan's rebuilding of their forward strength.
#### Watkins' sparkling season
This season, the 28-year-old has been a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League with his impressive 26 goals and 12 assists (third in the league with 19 goals and first in assists) at Aston Villa. His efficiency and versatility undoubtedly provided Milan with much-needed firepower. Despite just renewing his contract until 2028, his performances are enough to impress any European giant.
Born on 30 December 1995, the England striker is in the prime of his career, showing exceptional form on the pitch with his height of 179 centimetres. As Aston Villa's number 11, he prefers to use his right foot to shoot and pass the ball with precision, which has become his signature style on the pitch.
Watkins has been in the spotlight since moving from Brentford to Aston Villa in 2020 for a whopping €34 million transfer. In 161 appearances for Villa, he not only contributed an impressive 69 goals, but also provided 25 key assists, proving himself to be a versatile player who can score as well as instigate attacks. His performances have not only cemented his place at the club but also earned him the hearts and minds of his country, with Watkins showing his competitiveness on the international stage with three goals in 11 appearances for England so far, and Euro 2024 could be a springboard for his soaring value. Currently, his market value has climbed to 65 million euros, according to the German transfer market, underlining his market position as a top striker.
On a technical level, Watkins is a well-rounded and efficient goalscorer. His attacking tools are varied, whether it's with his right foot, left foot or header, and he can find the net with precision, which makes it difficult for defenders to predict his next move. Achieving a double-double number of goals in three consecutive seasons in the Premier League is a further testament to his efficient scoring prowess. In addition, with his excellent physical conditions, such as excellent bounces, quick reflexes and a strong body frame, he has the advantage in confrontations, especially in the penalty area, causing chaos and becoming a threat to the opposition defence.
As a centre-forward, Watkins also showed his importance as a tactical fulcrum for the team. His ability to carry the ball with his back to him and his ability to effectively link midfield and forward to create chances for his team-mates around him is particularly important in modern football. At the same time, he is known for his positive work attitude and high execution of the coach's tactical arrangements, setting a good example for the team.
Of course, every player has room to grow, and for Watkins, improving his individual possession, especially in high-pressure defence, could be a key focus for him in the future.
#### Milan's Strategies and Challenges
Milan have made remarkable moves to England in recent years, and the success stories of Fikayo Tomori and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have given the management confidence in bringing in Watkins. However, the €80 million estimate is a wall that tests the club's financial acumen and ability to operate in the market. The competition with Arsenal has undoubtedly added to the uncertainty and difficulty of this potential transfer.
#### Age vs. experience trade-off
Unlike the young blood that Milan have been chasing in the past, Watkins is in the prime of his career, and his maturity and immediacy may be a valuable asset for Milan, who are desperate for immediate results. But it also means that clubs have to think carefully about finding the best balance between short-term results and long-term planning.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the hearts of Milan fans are being touched by the name Watkins. Could he be the next legend for the San Siro, will the move fit into Milan's long-term strategy, or will there be a dark horse who has not yet surfaced and will rewrite the script at the last minute? Let's wait and see, and leave your thoughts in the comments section: Will Watkins be the perfect piece of the puzzle for Milan's attack?