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Ollie Watkins could leave Aston Villa before transfer deadline

5 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 4:26 PM

Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Ollie Watkins could leave Aston Villa before transfer deadline

Summary

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery stated that striker Ollie Watkins may depart the club this summer amid interest from Al-Hilal. Despite scoring 21 goals last season and being Villa's record Premier League scorer, Emery is unable to assure his staying. Other notable departures include Ezri Konsa to Arsenal and Morgan Rogers to Chelsea, raising concerns about the team's stability before the new season. The transfer window closes in 10 days, and Emery remains uncertain about Watkins' future. Villa's new goalkeeper, Zion Suzuki, has been signed from Parma for £30m following Emi Martinez's failed move to Juventus.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Watkins has scored 108 goals for Villa since joining in 2020.
•Ezri Konsa is moving to Arsenal for £51m.
•Morgan Rogers transferred to Chelsea for £117m.
•Zion Suzuki signed as Villa's new No.1 goalkeeper.
•Villa has lost six starters from its Europa League-winning squad.

Latest Updates

5:19 PMESPN Soccer — Villa boss Emery hints at Watkins, Martínez exits
2:22 PMYahoo Sports — Watkins and Martinez could join Villa exodus says Emery
1:52 PMYahoo Sports — Watkins could leave Villa before transfer deadline - Emery
1:47 PMBBC Sport — Watkins could leave Villa before transfer deadline - Emery

What they're saying

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Unai Emery has revealed Ollie Watkins and Emiliano Martinez could be the next Aston Villa players to join the exodus from the Europa League winners.Villa have rejected several bids for Watkins from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal this week, but Emery hinted the England striker would be allowed to leave for the right price.
— Yahoo Sports

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Aston Villa boss Unai Emery admits Ollie Watkins could be the next big-name player to leave the club this summer, while also revealing Emiliano Martínez has asked to move.
— ESPN Soccerby PA