"One that would excite Leeds fans" - Journalist drops big transfer verdict on £33m striker

Leeds United boss Jesse Marsch ‘would excite the fans’ by striking an Elland Road deal for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, according to CBS reporter Ben Jacobs.

The Whites’ unbeaten start to the Premier League season continued in style at the weekend, with a 3-0 victory over Chelsea, but Marsch could make alterations to his squad ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline.

According to Football Insider, Villa are willing to sell Watkins before the summer transfer window slams shut.

The report suggests the 26-year-old, who made the move to the Midlands after a £33million agreement was reached with Brentford close to two years ago, has a tense relationship with head coach Steven Gerrard.

Jacobs has revealed that Leeds, along with Premier League rivals Crystal Palace, are monitoring Watkins’ situation and could head to the negotiating table if the frontman pushes for an exit.

Transfer insider Dean Jones has previously told GIVEMESPORT that intermediaries may have sounded out Leeds in an attempt to gauge whether they are keen.

It seems that Marsch will have to move quickly if he wants to secure Watkins’ services as Everton have reportedly registered their interest.

Jacobs believes that Leeds supporters would be overjoyed if Watkins were to head to Yorkshire from Villa Park.

The journalist has not ruled out the possibility of the Whites capitalising due to uncertainty over his future.

Jacobs told GIVEMESPORT: “I think Ollie Watkins is the one that would excite Leeds fans the most, but there’s nothing to suggest that they can get a deal done quickly.

“Between now and when the window closes – unless these Villa denials are more PR, there is an underlying tension and Watkins does want a fresh challenge at that point – perhaps