Unai Emery has confirmed that Aston Villa remain in contract negotiations with Ollie Watkins following their 1-0 win against Chelsea last weekend.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, the Villa boss hailed the striker's commitment and attitude after he got his first goal in the Premier League this season in the win at Stamford Bridge.
When asked about whether he is hopeful that Watkins will put pen to paper soon, Emery said: "I am working about it. We are in touch."
Watkins has been in discussions with the club over a new deal for several months, and Villa's manager is keen to retain his services.
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The 27-year-old has two years left on his current contract and will enter the final 12 months of his existing deal at the end of the 2023-24 season unless fresh terms can be agreed.
The striker scored the only goal of the match against Chelsea, who were reduced to 10 men after referee Jarred Gillett sent off defender Malo Gusto for a challenge on Lucas Digne.
In his interview, Emery added that he had not watched the incident and went on to explain that he always tries to be respectful and understand the decisions made by the officials.
Watkins has been the top scorer for Villa in each of the last three seasons but had gone 12 league games without a goal before the trip to London at the weekend.
Devesh Jaganath
