Cole Palmer's efforts to convince Aston Villa ace to join Chelsea intensify

Chelsea are on the hunt for a major summer signing, with Aston Villa's prolific striker Ollie Watkins at the top of their wishlist. The Blues, eager to strengthen their attacking lineup, have found an unlikely ally in their young star Cole Palmer, who is reportedly playing a key role in convincing Watkins to make the move to Stamford Bridge.

Watkins, 28, has been a revelation since joining Aston Villa from Brentford in September 2020. The Torquay-born forward, who began his footballing journey at Newton Town & Buckland Athletic before honing his skills at Exeter City's academy, has become a vital cog in Villa's attacking machinery. With an impressive tally of 70 goals and 26 assists in 169 appearances for the Villans, Watkins has established himself as one of the Premier League's most lethal strikers.

Chelsea's interest in Watkins comes as no surprise, given their need for a reliable goal-scorer following an inconsistent season from Nicolas Jackson. Watkins' 19-goal haul last season, which saw him finish as the fourth-highest scorer in the Premier League, has only heightened the Blues' desire to secure his signature.

Enter Cole Palmer, Chelsea's rising star and Watkins' England teammate. The two have forged a strong bond and showcased their on-field chemistry during the UEFA Euro 2024, with Palmer's assist for Watkins' match-winning goal against the Netherlands in the semi-finals serving as a prime example of their effective partnership.

According to Football Insider, Palmer has been actively encouraging Watkins to leave Villa Park and join him at Stamford Bridge, suggesting that their synergy could elevate Chelsea's performance in the upcoming season. Palmer's own impressive form, which saw him finish as Chelsea's top scorer with 22 goals, only adds weight to his persuasive efforts.

Chelsea are reportedly preparing a swap deal to tempt Aston Villa into parting with their prized asset, offering Conor Gallagher, a long-time target for the Villans, as part of the negotiations. However, Villa are understandably reluctant to let go of their talismanic striker, especially after securing a coveted spot in the Champions League.

Watkins, who recently committed his future to Aston Villa by signing a new contract, has expressed his excitement for the upcoming season and emphasised his dedication to the club. Nevertheless, the prospect of joining a club of Chelsea's stature and reuniting with Palmer could prove to be a tempting proposition.

While Chelsea's pursuit of Watkins is not without its challenges, including Villa's high valuation of the striker, Palmer's influence could be a deciding factor. The Blues' need for a proven goal-scorer is clear, and Watkins' track record in the Premier League makes him an ideal fit.