Ollie Watkins’ future at Aston Villa has become increasingly uncertain after the England international was left out of the squad for Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Brighton, amid advanced negotiations with Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal.
The decision to omit the 30 year old striker from Villa’s matchday squad has intensified speculation that a major transfer could be completed before the Saudi transfer window closes.
Watkins has emerged as Al Hilal’s leading target as the Saudi club continues its search for an experienced striker capable of strengthening its attack. Negotiations between the two clubs have reportedly reached an advanced stage, with the Saudi side preparing another offer in an attempt to reach an agreement with Aston Villa.
According to transfer reports, Al Hilal already have an agreement in principle with Watkins over personal terms. The striker has reportedly indicated his willingness to move to Saudi Arabia, leaving the Premier League club’s approval as the major hurdle standing between the player and his proposed transfer.
The latest development came when Watkins was surprisingly absent from Aston Villa’s squad for the league encounter against Brighton. His omission has fuelled suggestions that both the player and the clubs are now preparing for the possibility of a move.
Al Hilal are understood to be increasingly confident that they can convince Villa to sanction the transfer. The Saudi club is expected to improve its proposal as negotiations enter a decisive phase, with time running out before the transfer window closes.
The potential move would represent another major acquisition for the Saudi Pro League, which has continued to attract internationally recognised players with significant transfer investment.
Al Hilal, widely known as “The Leader”, are looking to reinforce their attacking options as they prepare for another demanding season. The club has also been monitoring developments surrounding Karim Benzema, whose future has generated uncertainty despite the French striker previously expressing his desire to remain with the Saudi side.
Watkins would offer Al Hilal a different profile in attack. The England forward has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent goalscorers in recent seasons, combining pace, intelligent movement and finishing ability.
Since joining Aston Villa from Brentford in 2020, Watkins has developed into one of the club’s most important attacking players. His ability to lead the line, stretch opposing defences and contribute goals has made him a key figure in Villa’s rise under successive managers.
His performances have also earned him regular recognition at international level with England.
A move to Saudi Arabia would therefore represent a major change in Watkins’ career. At 30, the striker would be entering a new football environment after spending the majority of his professional career in England.
For Aston Villa, losing Watkins at this stage of the transfer window could present a significant challenge.
The forward has been an important source of goals for the club, and replacing his contribution would not be straightforward, particularly with the Premier League season already underway.
Villa’s decision to leave him out against Brighton could nevertheless indicate that the club does not want to risk the player while negotiations continue. It may also suggest that discussions have progressed far enough for both parties to be preparing for a possible separation.
The final decision will ultimately depend on whether Al Hilal can meet Aston Villa’s financial expectations.
While personal terms are reportedly not the major issue, the clubs still need to reach an agreement over the transfer fee and other conditions before Watkins can officially complete a move.
With the transfer window approaching its final stages, the pressure is now on Al Hilal to turn their interest into a formal agreement.
Watkins’ absence from Villa’s squad has added another significant twist to the developing story and could prove to be an indication that his time at Villa Park is coming to an end.
For now, Aston Villa remain in control of the situation, while Al Hilal prepare to make another push for the England striker.
If the Saudi club succeeds, Watkins would become the latest high profile Premier League name to make the move to the Roshn Saudi League, further strengthening the competition’s growing reputation as a destination for established international stars.
The coming hours could therefore prove crucial, with Al Hilal determined to complete the deal and Watkins reportedly open to beginning a new chapter in Saudi Arabia.
