Watkins could leave Villa before transfer deadline - Emery

Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins may depart before the transfer deadline, with manager Unai Emery unable to guarantee his continued presence at Villa Park. The England international has attracted interest from Saudi club Al-Hilal. Emery confirmed that bids have been received for the 30-year-old. Ezri Konsa is set to join Arsenal for £51m, while Morgan Rogers transferred to Chelsea in a club-record £117m deal. Other exits this summer include Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne.

Emery expressed that he wants to retain Watkins, acknowledging the player's importance to the club. However, he admitted that the situation could change if a suitable offer arrives and Watkins is replaced in the squad. The transfer window closes in 10 days, and Emery remains content with Watkins' performance and would like him to continue playing at his current level if he remains with the club.

If Watkins and goalkeeper Emi Martinez leave Villa, the team would have sold six members of their starting XI, which clinched the Europa League title two months ago. Martinez's move to Juventus fell through due to disagreement over a fee. To replace Martinez, Villa signed Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma for £30m. The goalkeeper will not feature in Sunday's Premier League opener against Brighton, as he has only had one training session since returning from a post-World Cup break.

Emery stated that the club signed Suzuki not only for the future but also to address immediate needs, praising the Argentine's ability to match Villa's standard. Martinez's decision to seek new challenges aligns with his previous intentions, and Emery supported the goalkeeper's choice, emphasizing that Villa's decision was based on mutual understanding.