Official Market: Premier League Star Heads to Saudi Arabia for €60 Million

Ollie Watkins has completed his move to Al Hilal, with the Saudi Arabian club reportedly paying £51 million (approximately €60 million) for his services. The striker departs Aston Villa to sign a three-year contract.

The 30-year-old England international leaves the Villans as their all-time leading scorer in the Premier League, having netted 91 goals, 65 of which came in the last three seasons. Over his six seasons at the Birmingham club, the prolific forward was a pivotal figure in Unai Emery's side's ascent, establishing them as consistent top-six contenders and securing the UEFA Europa League in 2025/26, the club's first European trophy in 44 years.

Watkins notably refused to play in last weekend's Premier League opener against Brighton, an action for which, according to the Spanish manager, the player later apologized.

In a social media post, the attacker addressed his departure. “Firstly, I want to say that I never intended, nor did I imagine, my time at Aston Villa would end this way. I am eternally grateful for the past six years. It has not only shaped me as a player but also as a person. We've been through so many highs and lows in my six seasons here, but one thing that never changed is that I gave my all for this club.”

Watkins will wear the number 11 shirt for Al Hilal, as the Riyadh club also looks to finalize the acquisition of Gabriel Martinelli and offload Karim Benzema.