Aston Villa do not want to sell Ollie Watkins and intend to keep the striker this season despite reports that he has agreed personal terms with Al-Hilal.
Watkins’ future appeared increasingly uncertain after the Saudi Pro League club stepped up their pursuit of the England international.
However, Villa’s position has now become significantly clearer.
The Athletic’s Jacob Tanswell reports that Villa do not wish to sell Watkins and that club sources expect the forward to remain as part of Unai Emery’s plans this season.
Aston Villa make Ollie Watkins stance clear
The update comes only hours after Watkins was reported to have agreed personal terms with Al-Hilal.
Read Aston Villa reported on Tuesday morning that Watkins had agreed terms over a potential move, although no agreement had been reached between the two clubs.
Villa’s latest stance therefore places a major obstacle in the way of any potential transfer.
Al-Hilal’s search for a new striker also appears to have developed elsewhere.
talkSPORT reports that Harry Kane now tops the Saudi club’s three-man shortlist ahead of Victor Osimhen and Watkins.
Villa are said to be relaxed about the situation and expect Watkins to remain at Villa Park.
That will be welcome news for Emery as he prepares for the start of the Premier League campaign.
Watkins remains a central part of Villa’s attack and losing him this late in the transfer window would leave the club needing to find another proven goalscorer at short notice.
Interest from Al-Hilal may not disappear completely, particularly if their other striker pursuits fail.
For now, though, Villa’s message is clear. They intend to keep Watkins and are planning for the season with him at the heart of Emery’s attack.
