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Ollie Watkins considered top target for Al-Hilal amid Benzema exit

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 25, 2026, 1:46 PM

Last updated Aug 25, 2026

Ollie Watkins considered top target for Al-Hilal amid Benzema exit

Summary

Ollie Watkins is reportedly a key target for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League as they seek to replace Karim Benzema. According to Saudi football expert Mohamed Qutob, Al-Hilal is willing to offer Watkins at least £20 million per year, tax-free. The club is facing disappointment in their current attacking options and aims to strengthen their forward line. Teams in the Saudi league are increasingly attracting top talent and Al-Hilal is actively pursuing multiple notable players to enhance their squad depth under manager Simone Inzaghi. The situation comes as part of a broader trend of players being lured by lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Al-Hilal seeks to replace Karim Benzema, targeting Ollie Watkins.
•Watkins could earn a minimum of £20 million annually, tax-free.
•Al-Hilal is investing heavily to improve their squad.
•Current dissatisfaction with attacking players has prompted this pursuit.
•Manager Simone Inzaghi is looking to enhance team competitiveness.

Latest Updates

1:46 PMYahoo Sports — Watkins would earn 'minimum' £20m a year tax-free - expert

What they're saying

"
As Ollie Watkins continues to be linked to Saudi Pro League side, Al-Hilal, many Aston Villa fans will wonder why this could turn their centre forward's head. Saudi football expert Mohamed Qutob told Radio WM that the Saudi side are in the market to replace five-time Champions League winner, Karim Benzema.
— Yahoo Sports

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