Ollie Watkins, Aston Villa's record Premier League goalscorer, is on the brink of a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, with the club reportedly offering close to £40 million. The transfer deadline is next Tuesday, and Villa's asking price remains above the Saudi club's offer, leaving the striker's future uncertain.

Al-Hilal's £40m Offer

Al-Hilal have made four offers for Watkins, the latest of which is close to £40 million. The Saudi club has signed Crysensio Summerville from West Ham in July and is likely to move one of its overseas players to make room for the 30-year-old striker, who has also been loaned Darwin Nunez to Diriyah.

Villa's Stance

Villa are playing hardball for their all-time record Premier League goalscorer. The club’s asking price is higher than the Saudi offer, and a deal is still believed to be some way off, even though head coach Unai Emery revealed last week that Watkins could leave. Watkins has been training on his own after an extended break following the World Cup and is understood to have made his feelings clear to the Villa hierarchy about moving.

Emery's Silence

When asked why Watkins was omitted from the squad for the Premier League opener at Brighton, Emery replied, “This question is for him. I can answer only with my silence.” The 4-0 loss to Brighton, in which Villa conceded all four goals in the first 31 minutes and had debutant Joao Gomes sent off, added to the perception that Watkins’ future is uncertain.

Impact on Villa's Squad

Watkins has scored 108 goals in 278 games for Villa after joining from Brentford for a then-record £28 million. His departure would be the most emotional of this summer’s big exits, as he has been synonymous with the club’s rise over the past six years and helped Villa win the Europa League in Istanbul. The club also faces uncertainty over goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who has been linked with a move to Juventus, and striker Tammy Abraham, who remains happy at the club.

Looking Ahead

Villa must resolve Martinez’s future and find a replacement for Watkins, while also addressing the departures of Morgan Rogers and Youri Tielemans. The club has already rejected two bids for Taylor Harwood-Bellis from Southampton and is considering options such as Brian Madjo, Nicolas Jackson, and Joshua Zirkzee. If Watkins leaves, the impact on Villa’s attack will be profound, cutting the deepest.