Watkins was linked with a January move to Arsenal, with it believed that the Gunners had a bid of around £40million rejected by Villa late in the transfer window. It remains to be seen whether Arsenal or another club make a move for the 29-year-old in the summer, but Keane has cast doubt on whether the elite clubs should be pursuing Watkins.

Forwards Marco Asensio and Marcus Rashford are quickly adapting to Aston Villa's style and growing in confidence, manager Unai Emery said after they linked-up again to lead the club into the FA Cup quarter-finals with a 2-0 victory over Cardiff City.

Aston Villa are once again fighting for Champions League qualification this term with five English clubs likely to make the cut for next season. Unai Emery’s side sit 10th in the Premier League but are just four points adrift of the top five despite losing away at Crystal Palace on Tuesday (25 February).