Aston Villa anticipates new offer from Al Hilal for Ollie Watkins

The Guardian Sport2 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 10:57 AM

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Aston Villa anticipates new offer from Al Hilal for Ollie Watkins
Summary

Aston Villa expects another bid from Al Hilal for striker Ollie Watkins after rejecting an offer nearing £40 million. Watkins, who has two years left on his contract, is Villa's all-time Premier League goalscorer, having scored in double figures during his six seasons with the club. Villa would seek to replace the 30-year-old if he departs, with Unai Emery interested in Nicolas Jackson, although Chelsea's £65 million valuation presents a barrier. The club acknowledges that financial regulations may necessitate a major sale before making significant acquisitions before the transfer window closes.

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By the Numbers
  • Aston Villa rejected nearly £40 million bid from Al Hilal.
  • Ollie Watkins has two years remaining on his contract.
  • Unai Emery interested in Nicolas Jackson as a potential replacement.
  • Chelsea's valuation of Jackson at £65 million is seen as too high.
  • Villa might need to make a major sale to facilitate new signings.
Latest Updates
  • 10:57 AMThe Guardian SportAston Villa expect another bid from Al Hilal for Ollie Watkins
What they're saying
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Offer of almost £40m rejected for England striker Watkins has two years left on his contract Aston Villa are braced for another bid from Al Hilal for Ollie Watkins, after rejecting an offer worth almost £40m for the striker. Al Hilal are pursuing a move for Villa’s all-time Premier League goalscorer, who has reached double figures in the top flight in his six seasons at the club after joining from Brentford. If Villa sell Watkins, who has two years remaining on his contract, they would seek to replace the 30-year-old England striker and Unai Emery is a big admirer of Nicolas Jackson, but Chelsea’s valuation of £65m is thought to be prohibitive to any deal. There is an acceptance at Villa that any marquee arrival before the close of the window would probably have to follow another major sale, owing to Premier League’s financial regulations. Continue reading...

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