Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has confirmed that striker Ollie Watkins could leave the club before the transfer window closes, but only if the right offer arrives and a replacement is secured. The England international remains a key player, yet interest from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal has intensified after four bids were rejected.
Al-Hilal's pursuit and Villa's stance
Al-Hilal have seen four offers for Watkins turned down by Villa, but the Saudi Pro League side have not abandoned their pursuit. The 28-year-old is reportedly attracted by the wages on offer at Al-Hilal, making a potential move appealing to the player.
Villa have responded by offering Watkins a new contract running until 2030, underlining their desire to keep him. Despite this, the club have assessed alternatives should he depart, with Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson emerging as a prime target.
Emery's public comments on Watkins
Speaking ahead of Villa's match against Brighton, Emery addressed the situation directly. “We have an issue with him, it is clear,” he said. “He is a player we have offers for. He is our player. I don’t want to sell him, but it can change if it is a good option for him and the club, and I can replace him in the squad.”
Emery stressed that Watkins remains an important part of the squad for now. “This is the routine we have and we have done before. With Ollie, he is here and he is a fantastic striker, and always up and down in performance we still believe in him,” he added.
Transfer window uncertainty
The manager noted that the transfer window remains open for another 10 days, leaving room for change. “Now, he is our player and there are still 10 days left to finish the transfer window. We will see what happens, but I am happy with him and if he stays with us then he will continue his level. But if he leaves then it will be good for us, the club and the player,” Emery explained.
When asked whether Watkins had formally requested a move and whether he would feature against Brighton, Emery responded: “I don’t, maybe you have more information than us. I see in the media: Watkins here, Watkins here.”
He concluded by reflecting on the changing nature of football loyalty: “Football is changing. The Aston Villa supporters start as Aston Villa supporters and finish their life as Aston Villa supporters. The players are professionals. Ollie Watkins is our player.”
Watkins' future now hinges on whether Al-Hilal submit a fifth bid that meets Villa's valuation and whether Emery can secure a suitable replacement before the window shuts.
