However, Aston Villa are determined to keep the England international.
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Arsenal had an offer for Watkins rejected on Wednesday, despite initial encouragement that a deal could be done.
On Thursday, Arsenal remained hopeful of signing the 29-year-old, even though Villa do not want to lose two forwards this winter.
Jhon Duran is nearing a move to Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr for a mega fee.
Arsenal are considering a second offer to revive the deal, but if Duran's transfer goes through, they will not have much hope.
Watkins, who supported Arsenal as a boy, is ready to go but will not kick up a fuss either.