Aston Villa announced Sunday the transfer of Ollie Watkins to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, bringing an end to the English striker's six-year spell in Birmingham. The deal was completed for £51 million, approximately €60 million.

At 30 years old, Watkins decided to accept the Saudi club's offer and begin a new chapter in his career. His departure comes during a summer of significant changes for Unai Emery's side, which has also lost several important players after winning the Europa League and finishing fourth in the Premier League.

Watkins Leaves Aston Villa After Six Seasons

The striker had expressed his desire to leave Aston Villa during the summer transfer window and was not included in the squad for the club's opening Premier League match, a 4-0 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Although Watkins later apologized to his teammates for his behavior in recent weeks, his decision to pursue a move remained unchanged, and he eventually reached an agreement to join Al-Hilal.

The forward leaves Birmingham after establishing himself as one of the club's key players. Watkins joined Aston Villa from Brentford in 2020 and went on to make 278 appearances, scoring 108 goals and providing 47 assists.

During his time with the Villans, he also won the Europa League and helped the club qualify for the Champions League on two occasions.

Aston Villa Prepare for Nico Jackson's Arrival

Watkins' departure also prompted immediate action in Aston Villa's squad planning. The club moved forward with a deal to sign Nico Jackson, who will arrive from Chelsea for a fee of around £65 million, approximately €75 million.

Emery will have to rebuild part of his squad following the departures of players such as Morgan Rogers, Lucas Digne, Youri Tielemans and Ezri Konsa during the transfer window.

As Aston Villa begin a new chapter in their project, Watkins will continue his career in Saudi Arabia with Al-Hilal, closing out a successful six-year spell in Birmingham.

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