Ollie Watkins joins Al-Hilal from Aston Villa in £51m deal

Ollie Watkins has completed a transfer from Aston Villa to the Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. The 30-year-old England international signed a three-year contract in a deal reported to be worth approximately £51 million (€59 million).

During his six-year tenure at Aston Villa, Watkins became the club’s all-time Premier League top scorer with 91 goals and played a pivotal role in their Europa League victory. His departure follows a period of significant squad restructuring at Villa. Watkins expressed gratitude to the club, stating, “I am eternally grateful for the last six years. Not only has it shaped me as a player, but as a person.”

At Al-Hilal, Watkins joins a squad managed by Simone Inzaghi and is expected to feature in the upcoming Saudi Pro League clash against Al-Ahli. His arrival coincides with a period of high investment for the club, which also includes players like Crysencio Summerville. The transfer also triggers solidarity payments for former clubs, including Exeter City and Brentford, under FIFA regulations.