Ollie Watkins has finalised his move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal from Aston Villa for a reported fee of £51m. The 30-year-old forward has signed a three-year contract with the Saudi club.
Watkins departs Villa as the club's record Premier League goalscorer, having netted 91 goals during his six seasons at Birmingham. His departure comes as part of a significant summer overhaul at Villa Park. Villa are moving to sign Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson for up to £65m, a deal that facilitates Watkins' exit to the Middle East.
During his time at Villa, Watkins proved instrumental in the club's transformation under manager Unai Emery. The forward contributed significantly to Villa's establishment as consistent top-six contenders and their triumph in the Europa League, the club's first European trophy in 44 years. His departure represents the end of a period of considerable success for both player and club.
The England international made himself unavailable for Villa's Premier League fixture against Brighton on the previous weekend, a decision for which Emery confirmed Watkins had apologised.
Watkins reflects on his Villa departure
In a statement posted to social media, Watkins expressed his feelings about leaving the club.
Firstly, I would like to say, never did I intend, nor did I imagine, my time at Aston Villa would end this way. With that being said, I am eternally grateful for the last six years. Not only has it shaped me as a player, but as a person.
He continued:
We've been through so many ups and downs in my six seasons here, but one thing that has never changed is that I have given everything for this club.
Watkins' exit follows defender Ezri Konsa's £51m move to Arsenal earlier in the transfer window, marking a period of significant squad restructuring at Villa as the club manages its financial position while maintaining competitive ambitions.
