Ollie Watkins faces uncertain Aston Villa future amid Al Hilal transfer interest

Aston Villa could yet face another major shake-up before the transfer window closes, with manager Unai Emery admitting Ollie Watkins may leave if the right offer arrives. Emery also confirmed that goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez has told the club he is open to a new challenge, according to an ESPN report.

Villa have already turned down four offers from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal for Watkins, but Emery made it clear that the striker's future is not completely settled.

Speaking ahead of Aston Villa's Premier League opener against Brighton, Emery said Watkins remains a key player but acknowledged that a transfer could happen if it benefits the player, the club and the team.


The Villa boss said the club would consider a sale if the terms were right and a suitable replacement could be brought into the squad before the transfer window shuts.

Aston Villa's summer exits continue

Watkins could become the latest high-profile departure from Villa Park during a busy summer for the club. Morgan Rogers, Lucas Digne and Youri Tielemans have already moved on, while Ezri Konsa's transfer to Arsenal was confirmed on Friday, according to ESPN.

Emery, however, insisted that Watkins remains an Aston Villa player for now and said he would continue to feature if he stays beyond the final days of the transfer window.

Emiliano Martínez has asked for a fresh challenge

Emiliano Martínez's future is also uncertain after the Argentina goalkeeper again expressed a desire to explore a move away from Aston Villa.

According to Emery, Martínez had considered a new challenge last summer as well but ultimately stayed and continued to perform at a high level. This time, Villa have prepared for the possibility of his departure by signing goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

Emery said Suzuki was brought in as a potential replacement should Martínez finally decide to leave, adding another major storyline to Villa's closing days of the transfer window.

Unai Emery backs Aston Villa's transfer strategy

Despite the possibility of losing more established players, Emery remains positive about Aston Villa's recruitment.

Villa have added Suzuki, Johan Manzambi, João Gomes, Matteo Ruggeri, Alejandro Garnacho and Aaron Wan-Bissaka as part of their summer rebuild. Emery described the club's approach to the market as “intelligent” and said the focus remains on building a squad capable of competing in the season ahead.

With around 10 days left in the transfer window, Aston Villa now face crucial decisions over two of their biggest names. Watkins has attracted repeated interest from Al Hilal, while Martínez's desire for a fresh challenge could open the door to another major exit from Villa Park.