Saudi giants test Villa’s resolve with £38m bid for Ollie Watkins

Al Hilal have put forward a £38 million offer for England striker Ollie Watkins, the 30‑year‑old Aston Villa forward, on 18 August 2026. The Saudi side’s bid tests Villa’s resolve as the club weighs keeping their prolific this season again Premier League scorer.

Why Al Hilal target Watkins

Watkins finished last season with 16 Premier League goals, matching his tally from the previous campaign. Across the last five seasons he has amassed 77 league goals, a total exceeded only by Erling Haaland and Mo Salah.

The striker has indicated openness to the move, noting that the Saudi side have presented a couple of proposals this summer. Aston Villa, however, have publicly stated their intention to retain him.

Implications for Villa and the Saudi side

Watkins did not travel to Salzburg for the Super Cup clash with Paris Saint-Germain last week, part of Villa’s plan for players involved in the World Cup. The club still expect him to be available for their Premier League opener at Brighton this Sunday.

Since joining Aston Villa from Brentford in 2020, Watkins has been a prolific scorer for the English side. His consistent goal output has made him a central figure in Villa’s attacking plans.

Villa are also linked with a move for Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson this summer, as reported earlier. In addition, they have agreed a loan with an obligation to buy West Ham defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka for around £18 million, with a medical scheduled for Wednesday.

If Al Hilal secure Watkins, the Saudi club would add a proven Premier League striker to bolster their ambitions. Conversely, losing him would force Aston Villa to replace a key goal source ahead of the new season.