League: Saudi Pro League Sport: Soccer Country: Saudi Arabia Category: Scores & Results

Aston Villa resists Al-Hilal's interest in Ollie Watkins

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 3:45 PM

Last updated Aug 18, 2026

Aston Villa resists Al-Hilal's interest in Ollie Watkins

Summary

Aston Villa is determined to keep forward Ollie Watkins amid interest from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. The club is not considering a sale, as Watkins is integral to manager Unai Emery's plans for the season. Despite being on vacation after the FIFA World Cup, he scored 21 goals in 55 appearances last season, contributing to Villa's Europa League title. Al-Hilal might pursue a significant offer, though Villa is evaluating alternatives should Watkins depart, including Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson.

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By the Numbers

•Al-Hilal has long admired Ollie Watkins.
•Aston Villa is not looking to sell Watkins.
•Watkins scored 21 goals last season.
•Villa assesses Nicolas Jackson as a possible replacement.
•Transfer window closes on September 1.

Latest Updates

5:23 PMYahoo Sports — Aston Villa reportedly opting to keep star forward amid Saudi interest
4:50 PMYahoo Sports — Report: Aston Villa star reaches agreement over mega-money exit
3:45 PMYahoo Sports — Aston Villa determined to keep Ollie Watkins despite Al-Hilal transfer interest

What they're saying

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Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins is attracting interest from Saudi Pro League (SPL) club Al-Hilal.According to The Athletic, the Saudi giants are long-time admirers of Watkins and could try to sign h...
— Yahoo Sports

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Ollie Watkins to Al-Hilal: Aston Villa Face Major Transfer Call as Saudi Talks LoomAston Villa are facing a significant summer decision after reports that Ollie Watkins has “agreed terms with Al-Hil...
— Yahoo Sports