Al Hilal continue Ollie Watkins talks after Aston Villa reject €45m bid

Al Hilal remain in talks with Aston Villa over a potential move for Ollie Watkins after seeing an opening offer for the England striker rejected.

Sky Sports News reports that the Saudi Pro League club submitted a proposal worth €45 million, around £38.5 million, but Villa turned it down. Discussions have continued despite that rejection, with Al Hilal expected to maintain their pursuit of the 30-year-old.

Watkins is understood to be interested in the move, although no agreement has yet been reached between the clubs. Aston Villa’s position is also complicated by their need to secure a replacement before allowing one of their most important attacking players to leave.

That condition could become decisive as negotiations develop. Villa remain reluctant to weaken their forward options without first identifying and completing a suitable deal elsewhere, meaning Al Hilal would need both to improve their offer and wait for developments in the Birmingham club’s own recruitment plans.

Al Hilal are assessing Watkins as part of their efforts to strengthen their attack ahead of the new season. The Saudi club have significant financial capacity and are expected to return with an improved proposal after their initial bid was rejected.

Watkins remains a major figure at Villa Park after another productive Premier League campaign. He scored 16 league goals last season and has continued to play an important role for England, including at the 2026 World Cup.

His combination of Premier League experience, movement behind defensive lines and consistent scoring record has made him an attractive option for Al Hilal as they consider changes to their attacking department.

For Villa, any potential sale would represent a major sporting decision as well as a significant transfer negotiation. Watkins has been central to the club’s progress in recent seasons, and replacing his output at this stage of the window would add further pressure to their recruitment strategy.

The situation therefore remains open rather than advanced towards completion. Al Hilal have demonstrated concrete interest and Watkins is receptive to the possibility of moving, but Villa have rejected the first offer and there is currently no club-to-club agreement in place.