Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins agrees personal terms with Al Hilal
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has reportedly agreed personal terms with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal ahead of a potential summer transfer.
The Middle Eastern giants have made the 28-year-old their top priority as they seek a replacement for former Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema.
Benzema is currently out of favour under manager Simone Inzaghi following a January move from domestic rivals Al Ittihad.
However, no direct negotiations have yet taken place with the Premier League side.
Al Hilal must first offload their French veteran, who is demanding his final contract year be paid out in full, before they can table a formal bid.
Villa face major squad overhaul
A departure for the England international would represent another massive change for the Midlands club this window.
The Villans have already lost Youri Tielemans to Manchester United, Lucas Digne to Paris St-Germain and Morgan Rogers to Chelsea.
Key midfielder Amadou Onana is also set to miss the upcoming campaign with a serious knee injury.
Manager Unai Emery has attempted to rebuild his ranks by recruiting Joao Gomes alongside Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho.
Matteo Ruggeri is also expected to arrive from Atletico Madrid, while Zion Suzuki will join as a new first-choice goalkeeper amid speculation surrounding Emiliano Martinez.
Emery desperate to keep attacking focal point
Losing such a prolific frontman at this late stage of the window would be a devastating blow to the Villa boss.
The former Brentford star has been an elite focal point for the team since the Spanish tactician arrived at Villa Park.
Emery has frequently praised his star striker’s relentless work ethic and professional attitude.
“He’s amazing,” Emery said. “Because he’s a really hard worker and his commitment to work every day is amazing.”
“When he is scoring goals, it’s the main objective he can have. Where he is assisting as well, he’s contributing to help the team.”
“His commitment and behaviour is always a very good example for others. His mentality is the best quality he has.”