Watkins completes £51m move to Saudi side Al-Hilal

Ollie Watkins, Aston Villa's record Premier League scorer with 91 goals, has completed a £51m move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. The 30-year-old striker signed a three-year deal with the Saudi Arabian club. During his six-year tenure at Villa, Watkins played a pivotal role in the club's rise, challenging for a top-six finish in the Premier League and securing their first Europa League title in 44 years.

He informed his teammates that he was withdrawing from Villa's opening Premier League match against Brighton, which manager Unai Emery acknowledged was due to Watkins' apology. Emery expressed his sadness at Watkins' departure, acknowledging the six years of shared highs and lows. Al-Hilal will join the club's recent exodus this summer, which includes Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa, Youri Tielemans, and Lucas Digne.

Watkins praised his time at Villa, thanking staff, including Emery, who always believed in him, and his two children who were born at the club. He also noted the significance of Villa fans singing his name and seeing them on the pitch. Villa are also close to signing Southampton defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis for £29m, subject to finalizing minor details.