Ollie Watkins open to Saudi transfer as Al Hilal prepare second offer for Aston Villa star

Aston Villa are set to reject Al Hilal’s opening bid of £38million to sign Ollie Watkins, talkSPORT understands.

The Aston Villa striker is open to a move to the Saudi Pro League outfit, who are expected to make an improved bid.

Getty

If Watkins were to leave Villa Park, it would open the door for Unai Emery’s side to reignite their interest in Nicolas Jackson.

However, talkSPORT understands Villa are reluctant to sell the England international.

talkSPORT revealed last month that discussions had taken place with Chelsea over signing the Senegal international.

Unai Emery previously worked with Jackson, who Chelsea value at £65million, during their time at Villarreal.

As for Watkins, he has less than two years remaining on his current Villa deal.

The 30-year-old joined the club from Brentford in 2020 and was part of the side which won the Europa League last season.

Watkins has scored 108 goals in 278 appearances across all competitions for Villa.

An exit from the club this summer would leave Tammy Abraham and Brian Madjo as Emery’s only senior centre-forwards.

Both players are currently fitness doubts for their season opener against Brighton on Sunday, though.

Al Hilal’s striker search

Al Hilal have also held talks with Harry Kane over a potential move for the England captain. However, as previously revealed by talkSPORT, he is expected to stay at Bayern Munich.

Getty

Former Bournemouth technical director Simon Francis is playing a key role in the pursuit of a new centre-forward.

It comes amid uncertainty surrounding Karim Benzema’s future at the club.

The 38-year-old joined Al Hilal from Al Ittihad in February on a deal until the summer of 2027.

talkSPORT understands talks were held between Benzema and the club last month over his future.

He is believed to want a prominent role as opposed to a scenario which would see him only registered for Asian Champions League matches.

It’s also understood Al Hilal could offload Darwin Nunez on loan to fellow Saudi Pro League club Diriyah this summer.

Getty

Meanwhile, Francis joined Al Hilal in a senior recruiting role at the start of July after leaving the Cherries.

Simone Inzaghi’s side have already signed Crysenzio Summerville from West Ham United this summer.

The Netherlands winger completed a £68million move to the club last month.