Ollie Watkins Near Transfer to Saudi Club Al Hilal

Al Hilal are finalising a deal to sign Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, pending the English club’s acquisition of a replacement forward. The Saudi Pro League side have agreed to a base fee of £50 million, with additional performance-related add-ons, and intend to offer Watkins a three-year contract. The agreement is contingent on Watkins travelling to Riyadh for a medical examination in the coming days.

New York Times

Villa rejected a fourth bid of around £45 million for Watkins on August 21, according to The Athletic. The club simultaneously secured striker Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea for a total package of £65 million. Manager Unai Emery said after Villa’s 4-0 Premier League loss to Brighton that questions about Watkins’ future were matters for the player and his agent, and that he could only remain silent. Emery added that while the club does not wish to sell Watkins, a move could be considered if it benefits both player and club and a suitable replacement is found.

New York Times

Watkins featured in 55 of Villa’s matches last season, scoring 21 goals and providing five assists as the team won the Europa League. He has made 278 appearances for Villa overall, with 108 goals and 47 assists. His current contract runs until 2028, after Villa offered an extension to 2030 that he declined.

New York Times

With the arrival of Jackson and injuries to striker Tammy Abraham and 17-year-old forward Brian Madjo, Villa remain thin in the attacking department. Emery has deployed midfielder Ross Barkley as a makeshift No 9, underscoring the urgency of finding a permanent replacement should Watkins depart.

New York Times

Al Hilal’s offer and the conditional nature of the transfer were confirmed by club officials. Villa’s management, through Emery, emphasized that any decision will balance the player’s interests with the club’s need for a viable striking option.

New York Times