Al Hilal in talks to sign Watkins

Al Hilal’s pursuit of Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has intensified this week, with the Saudi club lodging a £38million bid and reportedly agreeing personal terms with the England international. Villa have rejected the offer, but negotiations remain active as the transfer window nears its close. The move comes amid a turbulent summer at Villa Park, where key players have departed and injuries have disrupted pre-season preparations.

Why Al Hilal want Watkins now

Al Hilal are targeting Watkins as a direct replacement for Karim Benzema, whose future at the club is uncertain despite his 10 goals in 15 appearances since joining in February. The Saudi side, managed by Simone Inzaghi, have already seen one bid rejected but are pushing for a solution. Watkins, who scored 16 Premier League goals last season and helped Villa secure Champions League football, fits their profile as a proven Premier League striker.

Villa’s summer has been defined by departures, with Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, and Lucas Digne all leaving for a combined £159.5m. The club’s response has included signing Joao Gomes and 17-year-old Brian Madjo, who impressed in pre-season despite defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup. Yet the loss of key personnel has left Unai Emery needing reinforcements, particularly in defence, where Ezri Konsa’s future remains unsettled.

What Watkins’ exit would mean for Villa

Watkins has been a cornerstone of Villa’s attack since arriving from Brentford in 2020, scoring over 100 goals and earning a spot in England’s 2026 World Cup squad. His potential departure would leave a significant void, especially with the club’s Champions League campaign approaching. Villa have already rejected three bids from Al Hilal, but the Saudi club’s persistence suggests they are prepared to improve their offer before the window shuts.

The timing is awkward for Emery, who has seen injuries disrupt his squad ahead of the Premier League opener against Brighton. Watkins missed pre-season and last week’s Super Cup clash, while Ezri Konsa, Emiliano Martinez, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka face uncertain futures. Villa’s recent activity includes agreeing a deal for West Ham’s Wan-Bissaka, but the loss of Watkins would compound their defensive and attacking challenges.

The wider context: Saudi Arabia’s transfer strategy

Al Hilal’s interest in Watkins reflects a broader pattern in Saudi football, where clubs are targeting high-profile Premier League talent. Their pursuit of Darwin Nunez, alongside the £60m signing of Crysencio Summerville from West Ham, underscores their ambition to build a competitive squad. For Watkins, a move would mean a substantial pay rise and a chance to play in the AFC Champions League, though his World Cup cameo—just two appearances—hints at the personal stakes involved.

Villa’s options are limited. They could attempt to replace Watkins with another striker, but the market’s reluctance to meet their valuation may force a rethink. Alternatively, they might retain him and gamble on younger options like Madjo, who marked his debut with a goal against PSG. Either way, the next 48 hours will be decisive.

For now, Watkins remains at Villa Park, but the clock is ticking. If Al Hilal’s latest bid is rebuffed, they will likely return with a higher offer—one Villa may struggle to refuse. Emery’s side must balance their Champions League ambitions with the reality of a squad in flux, while Watkins faces a pivotal career choice. One thing is certain: this saga is far from over.