Transfer Window Tickdown: Aston Villa Resists Al Hilal's €45M Bid for Ollie Watkins
Aston Villa is resisting Al Hilal's €45M bid for England international Ollie Watkins, who has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Saudi Pro League club. The bid, which falls short of Watkins' estimated market value of €60M, is seen as a negotiating tactic rather than a serious offer.
Watkins' Future Uncertain
Watkins has been with Aston Villa since 2020 and signed a contract extension in October 2023 that keeps him tied to the club until June 2028. The long-term deal gives Villa significant leverage, and they have made it clear they don't want to sell. Villa sources acknowledge Al Hilal's interest is long-standing, but the club is unlikely to consider the €45M bid.
The €15M Gap
The €15M gap between Al Hilal's bid and Watkins' Transfermarkt valuation is significant. Villa has shown no indication of willingness to move on from the player. With roughly two weeks left in the 2026 summer transfer window, time is not on Al Hilal's side. The Benzema situation needs resolution before the club can fully commit to bringing Watkins aboard.
Complications for Watkins
A move to Saudi Arabia could complicate Watkins' standing with the national team, depending on how selectors view players outside Europe's top leagues. If Al Hilal is serious about getting this done, a substantially improved bid will need to arrive quickly. A revised offer closer to or exceeding that €60M valuation would at least force a genuine conversation at Villa Park.