As Nottingham Forest looks to strengthen their squad in the second half of the Premier League season, they have reportedly set their sights on Aston Villa’s in-form striker Ollie Watkins. With Forest aiming to propel themselves into the upper echelons of the table, securing a clinical forward like Watkins could provide the vital edge they need to compete in the race for the Premier League title.

Watkins, who has been a standout performer for Aston Villa since joining the club in 2020, has emerged as one of the most consistent goal scorers in the Premier League. Known for his speed, technical ability, and intelligent movement off the ball, the England international has been instrumental in Villa’s attacking play. His ability to score in a variety of ways, from poaching goals inside the box to finishing on the counter-attack, has made him one of the most sought-after forwards in English football.

Nottingham Forest, who have impressed under manager Steve Cooper, currently find themselves in a competitive battle in the upper part of the Premier League table. However, to ensure that they can challenge the traditional heavyweights, the club needs to bolster their attacking options. Despite the likes of Taiwo Awoniyi and Chris Wood providing some goals this season, Forest has lacked a consistent goal scorer at the level required for a sustained push for the title.

With Aston Villa sitting comfortably in the top half of the table, it’s unclear whether they would be willing to part with one of their key players mid-season. However, the appeal of a lucrative transfer fee, combined with Forest’s growing ambition, could make a move for Watkins enticing for Villa. Forest would likely have to break their transfer record to bring in the forward, but the potential rewards of securing a player of Watkins’ calibre would be undeniable.

For Forest, a move for Ollie Watkins would represent a bold statement of intent. In a season where many of the traditional “top six” teams have shown vulnerabilities, this could be the perfect opportunity for Forest to mount a genuine title challenge. Adding Watkins’ goal-scoring prowess would complement the team’s evolving attacking style and help them compete with the best the Premier League has to offer.

If Forest can pull off this deal, it would mark a new chapter in their quest to rise to the top of English football. With Ollie Watkins leading the line, Nottingham Forest could be primed to become serious contenders in the Premier League title race.