Aston Villa Weigh €45M Al Hilal Bid for Watkins

Aston Villa are facing a significant decision over the future of striker Ollie Watkins after Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal submitted an official bid of 45 million euros, including add-ons, for the England international. The offer represents the third formal approach from the Saudi side, following two previous rejected proposals. Watkins, who is 30 years old, is understood to be open to the move, but the final decision rests with the Premier League club.

The latest bid was confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on August 18, 2026. Villa had already turned down earlier offers, including one reported to be worth around 38 million pounds. The club remains reluctant to sell their top scorer from the last six seasons, who scored 21 goals in all competitions last term and helped Villa win the Europa League. However, the situation is complicated by the fact that Watkins has less than two years remaining on his contract, which runs until 2028.

Al Hilal's pursuit has intensified as they seek a replacement for Karim Benzema, whose departure from the club is reportedly under negotiation. The Saudi club had previously explored moves for Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen before focusing on...