Ollie Watkins' future at Aston Villa has become increasingly uncertain after the England striker missed Sunday's 4-0 Premier League defeat to Brighton while talks continue over a possible transfer to Al Hilal. The Saudi Pro League club has already had at least one offer rejected for Watkins, but negotiations remain ongoing.
Aston Villa do not want to lose the 30-year-old, although manager Unai Emery has acknowledged that offers have been received and that a departure remains possible if an agreement works for both the player and the club. No transfer has been agreed, meaning Watkins remains an Aston Villa player.
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Why Did Watkins Miss the Brighton Match?
Watkins was not included in Villa's squad for their opening Premier League fixture at the Amex Stadium. He only returned to training during the week following his post-World Cup break, but his absence also came amid continued negotiations with Al Hilal. Emery declined to give a clear explanation when questioned before and after the defeat.
When asked about Watkins' absence following the match, the Villa manager suggested the question should be directed towards the striker himself rather than providing a specific fitness or transfer-related reason. There has therefore been no official confirmation that Watkins missed the game because of his transfer situation.
Al Hilal Have Already Had a Bid Rejected
Al Hilal's pursuit is more than simple transfer speculation. The clubs have been in discussions, with an opening offer reported at around €45 million (£38.5 million) having been rejected by Aston Villa. Villa's preference is to keep Watkins, but Al Hilal continue to push for an agreement, and the forward is reportedly open to making the move.
Emery had already admitted before the start of the season that Watkins had received offers and could potentially leave before the transfer window closes. That makes the coming days important for both sides.
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Why Losing Watkins Would Be Significant for Aston Villa
Watkins remains one of Villa's most important attacking players. He scored 16 Premier League goals last season, helping the club secure Champions League football and win the Europa League. His importance was particularly noticeable against Brighton, when Villa had to play without a recognised senior striker and struggled badly in attack during the 4-0 defeat.
Allowing Watkins to leave would therefore create an immediate need for another centre-forward. Villa are already dealing with significant squad changes this summer, so selling their leading striker without securing an adequate replacement would add another major challenge for Emery.
What Happens Next?
Al Hilal are expected to continue their efforts to sign Watkins, but Aston Villa remain in a strong negotiating position because they have already rejected the opening proposal.
The situation may ultimately depend on whether Al Hilal are prepared to significantly improve their offer and whether Villa can identify a suitable replacement. Watkins' own position could also become important if negotiations progress further. For now, however, there is no confirmed agreement, medical, or completed transfer.
Conclusion
Ollie Watkins' absence from Aston Villa's Premier League opener has added further uncertainty to an already significant transfer story. Al Hilal are actively trying to sign the England international and have already seen one bid rejected, while Watkins is reportedly interested in the move.
Villa, meanwhile, would prefer to keep him but have not completely ruled out a sale. The next major development will be whether Al Hilal return with an improved offer and whether Aston Villa decide that the proposed deal is strong enough to justify losing one of their most important players.