Ollie Watkins has reportedly informed Aston Villa that he wants to leave the club this summer and complete a move to Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal.
The development represents a significant blow for Unai Emery, who has already overseen considerable change to his squad despite guiding Villa to a fourth-place Premier League finish and Europa League glory last season.
According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, Watkins has communicated his desire to leave directly to Villa officials after Al-Hilal stepped up their pursuit. The Saudi club have reportedly made four approaches for the England international, including two formal offers, with their latest bid worth around £45 million rejected.
Al-Hilal expected to improve Watkins offer
Al-Hilal are not expected to walk away following Villa’s rejection. Jacobs reports that there is a belief the Saudi giants will return with an improved proposal as they attempt to convince Villa to sanction Watkins’ departure before the September 1 deadline.
Villa have not communicated a specific asking price, but their position could soften if two conditions are satisfied: Watkins continues pushing for the transfer and Emery’s side secure an adequate replacementThat second factor could prove decisive.
Watkins has developed into one of Villa’s most dependable attacking players and last season became their record Premier League goalscorer. Losing him so close to the deadline without a replacement would therefore represent a considerable risk. Signed for a then club record fee of £28m in 2020, Watkins has been worth his salt.
Emery leaves door open to departure
Emery has publicly acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Watkins and confirmed that Villa have received offers for the striker. While the Spaniard stressed that his preference is to retain Watkins, he also admitted that the situation could change if a transfer ultimately benefits the player, club and team.
That represents a notable shift given Villa’s previous determination to keep their leading striker and convince him to sign a new contract. The club have already experienced several significant departures this summer, including Youri Tielemans, Lucas Digne, Morgan Rogers and Ezri Konsa, while Emiliano Martinez could also leave following the arrival of Zion Suzuki.
Watkins informing Villa that he wants the move changes the complexion of this transfer significantly. Villa can still reject Al-Hilal’s approaches, but keeping an unsettled player becomes increasingly difficult when substantial offers are arriving and the striker himself is pushing to leave. The key is finding a replacement. Villa should not sanction Watkins’ departure simply because Al-Hilal increase their bid.
But if they can secure another proven goalscorer and receive a premium fee for a player approaching 31, a deal that initially looked unthinkable could suddenly make sense for all parties.