Ollie Watkins' tenure as an Aston Villa legend appears to be drawing to a close as the club faces significant interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, potentially for a fee approaching £40 million. Despite Aston Villa's high valuation, a deal is understood to be some way off, with the transfer deadline approaching next Tuesday.
Watkins, who joined Villa from Brentford for a then-club-record £28 million, has scored 108 goals in 278 appearances and has been a pivotal figure in the club's rise over the past six years. His contributions were crucial in ending the club's 30-year trophy drought when they won the Europa League, a match that may stand as his last for Villa.
Unai Emery, Aston Villa's manager, has indicated that the striker could depart, though he offered an enigmatic response when asked about Watkins' absence from a recent match, suggesting the player's own actions were a factor. Watkins himself has reportedly made his feelings about a move clear to the club's hierarchy and is understood to be open to the transfer, though neither he nor his representatives have made public comments.
The potential departure is seen as particularly painful for Aston Villa, given Watkins' status as one of the club's most recognizable and popular figures. His work rate, goals, and grounded, family-oriented personality have made him a club icon. This situation mirrors a past instance in 2017 when, at Exeter City, Watkins pleaded with his manager to play amid interest from Derby County, ultimately coming off the bench to score. This history of drive and desire has led to surprise among those at Villa regarding the current state of his relationship with the club.
Al-Hilal, one of the clubs reportedly interested, has made an offer close to £40 million. However, this is still short of Aston Villa's asking price. The Saudi club may need to move an existing overseas player to accommodate Watkins, adding further complexity to the negotiations. Watkins has been training separately since returning from an extended break following the World Cup, indicating a potential disconnect.
Questions remain about whether Aston Villa views the Saudi offer for a striker turning 31 in December, who has been in and out of Emery's lineup at times, as a favorable deal. The emotional weight of potentially losing such a significant player is a considerable factor in the ongoing discussions.