Ollie Watkins just gave Liverpool the perfect transfer reminder – but it could cost FSG millions

Ollie Watkins is England’s hero after his goal sent the Three Lions into the Euro 2024 final – and may also have sent a transfer reminder to Liverpool.

The Aston Villa forward struck just as the clock ticked past 90 minutes as England were locked at 1-1 with the Netherlands. Harry Kane’s controversial first-half penalty drew Gareth Southgate’s side level after Xavi Simons’ superb opener.

The match appeared to be heading for extra-time until Watkins’ superb finish sealed England’s place in the final in Berlin on Sunday, where they will face Spain.

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Watkins’ moment of glory will come as no surprise to any Premier League fans, especially Liverpool supporters. The Reds saw first-hand exactly what the 28-year-old is capable of, including a hat-trick during a 7-2 win for Villa in 2020.

Not only that, but Liverpool have been linked with a move for Watkins over the years, including in the last couple of months. According to HITC in May, the Reds were among a host of admirers for the forward, alongside Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United.

That came at a time when there were concerns Villa might have to cash in to avoid breaching the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules, although with the expiry of the PSR it is unlikely they would be in the same position now. In any case, Villa are said to have no interest in letting their star striker leave.

All of Europe just saw exactly why. His strike to send England into the final showcased his clinical instincts perfectly – instincts that would no doubt have attracted Liverpool and the other clubs mentioned.

According to Transfermarkt, Watkins is valued at $70m (£55m/€65m). You can guarantee the goal just added a few million to that.

It was a moment that reminded Liverpool just how much talent the Villa striker has. But his stock is sky-high and with millions being added to his price all the time, FSG would face an almighty toll to try and tempt Villa into even considering selling their star striker.

Liverpool.com says: What a shot from Watkins. That was worthy of winning any match, let alone a European Championship semi-final. He would be a very attractive prospect for Liverpool, although he will almost certainly prove too expensive for the Reds, especially after tonight.