‘We Have Had Offers’ – Unai Emery Admits Ollie Watkins Could Leave Aston Villa Amid Saudi Interest

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has admitted Ollie Watkins could leave the club this summer after receiving several offers for the England striker.                                      

                                             

Watkins has attracted strong interest from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, who have already had multiple bids rejected by Villa. The latest reported offer was worth around £45 million, with negotiations still ongoing.

Emery said he does not want to lose Watkins but acknowledged that a departure remains possible if the deal works for the player, the club and the team.

“We have had offers for him,” Emery said, adding that Watkins could leave if Villa receive an option that suits all sides.

Watkins Faces Uncertain Future

The 30-year-old has been Villa’s leading scorer for six consecutive seasons and remains one of the most important players in Emery’s squad.

However, Villa have already seen several key players leave this summer, including Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne, while Ezri Konsa has also completed a move to Arsenal.

A Watkins departure would therefore represent another major change for a Villa side that is undergoing a significant squad rebuild.

Al-Hilal Waiting

Al-Hilal are keen to bring Watkins to Saudi Arabia as they look to strengthen their attack.

Reports have also suggested that Watkins is open to the move, although Villa have continued to resist the Saudi club's approaches.

Emery stressed that Watkins remains a Villa player for now and said he would be happy if the striker stays.

However, with the transfer window approaching its final days, the situation remains uncertain.

For Villa supporters, the biggest question now is whether Watkins will remain at Villa Park or become the latest high-profile player to leave Emery’s rebuilding squad.