Arsenal targeted former Real Madrid and Chelsea star after their shock move for Ollie Watkins was rejected by Aston Villa

Arsenal reportedly discussed the possibility of bringing former Real Madrid and Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata to the club after a deal for Ollie Watkins fell through. 

The Gunners were keen to bolster their attacking options during the January transfer window, given the long term injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Even with a fully fit squad, Arsenal were criticised for their reluctance to recruit an out-and-out striker. 

But efforts were made last month to acquire Watkins from Aston Villa, and despite the 29-year-old’s willingness to join the club he supported as a boy, Villa resolutely refused to sanction the sale of another forward, following Jhon Duran’s exit. 

According to The Athletic, Mikel Arteta’s side remained interested in signing a striker and even considered signing Spain captain Morata on loan until the end of the season. 

The 32-year-old moved to AC Milan last summer but has had a bit part role for the Serie A giants, scoring just five league goals in 16 matches. 

The report claims that Arsenal expressed interest in the two-time Champions League winner but ultimately lost out to Turkish side Galatasaray, who were much more emphatic in their desire to sign the forward. 

In the end, Arsenal opted not to sign another striker, leaving Kai Havertz as the only fit recognised centre forward in the squad. Leandro Trossard is capable of playing in the position but the Gunners are also light in the wide areas, with the injury to Saka. 

The Arsenal boss would have been thankful for their 5-1 rout of Manchester City on Sunday, which quelled talk of the need for a new man up top. 

Five different players got on the scoresheet for the home side, including Havertz, who scored his 15th goal of the season. 

Arsenal are lookin to overturn a 2-0 deficit in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle on Wednesday.