Villa fans rage as Ollie Watkins eyes £34m Saudi Arabia Al-Hilal move

Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, 30, and his wife Ellie have been linked with a £34 million move to Saudi Arabia’s Al‑Hilal after manager Unai Emery hinted the forward refused to play amid transfer speculation. The suggestion came following the club’s 4‑0 loss to Brighton on Sunday, their opening Premier League fixture of the season.

Fans lash out at Watkins and Ellie

Aston Villa supporters voiced their anger on social media, targeting both Watkins and Ellie. Comments ranged from pleas for the couple to stay, to snake emojis on Watkins’ Bahamas holiday post. One fan wrote, “Congrats on selling your soul Ollie,” reflecting the depth of frustration.

Watkins was omitted from Villa’s squad for the 4‑0 defeat by Brighton on Sunday, despite the club’s only other forwards, Brian Madjo and Tammy Abraham, being sidelined through injury. Villa clarified that Watkins is neither ill nor injured, though he reportedly did not complete full training last week. The exclusion sparked further speculation about his commitment.

Aston Villa announced they have turned down four offers from Saudi Pro League side Al‑Hilal for Watkins. The latest bid is believed to be around £34 million, a price the Premier League club says it will not accept. Villa’s refusal underscores their determination to retain the striker.

Due to UEFA financial regulations, Villa have off‑loaded approximately £250 million worth of talent this summer. Departures include Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, Lucas Digne and Ezri Konsa. Watkins and goalkeeper Emi Martinez remain potential exits as the club balances its books.

When pressed about Watkins’ status, Emery replied, “This question is for him. I can answer only with my silence.” He added, “I think you can call him, you can call his agent and he can respond. He can only explain his answer, I can’t.” The manager noted the team were missing two injured strikers and that Watkins’ answer was the only one left.

Al‑Hilal’s determined bid

Al‑Hilal have persisted with four separate offers, demonstrating a strong desire to add the English forward. Their willingness to meet a £34 million valuation reflects the club’s ambition in the Saudi Pro League. Hilal’s officials confirmed the interest, hoping to secure Watkins before the summer window closes.

For Aston Villa, rejecting the bid keeps Watkins but fuels ongoing fan unrest and raises questions about squad harmony. For Al‑Hilal, the refusal means they must look elsewhere to strengthen their attack. The story was reported by WILL PICKWORTH on 24 August 2026.