Emery Confirms Four Al Hilal Bids for Watkins and Martínez Exit Request

Aston Villa have rejected four bids from Al Hilal for Ollie Watkins as Unai Emery prepares for Sunday's Premier League opener at Brighton.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery confirmed on August 21, 2026, that the club has rejected four separate transfer bids from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal for striker Ollie Watkins. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s Premier League season opener against Brighton, Emery acknowledged an "issue" regarding the England international's future, noting that the forward could depart Villa Park if a suitable valuation is met. The 11:00 AM ET announcement detailed that the transfer window has approximately 10 days remaining for a resolution to be reached between the three involved parties: the player, the club, and the squad.

Emiliano Martínez has also formally requested a move away from the club to pursue a new challenge. The Argentina goalkeeper previously expressed a desire to leave last summer but remained at the club for the 2025-26 campaign. In anticipation of a potential departure for the World Cup winner, Villa have secured the signing of Zion Suzuki as a tactical replacement. Emery noted that Martínez has performed at a high level despite his long-standing interest in a fresh career opportunity.

Roster Overhaul and Confirmed Departures

The potential exits of Watkins and Martínez follow a series of high-profile departures from the West Midlands. Ezri Konsa’s transfer to Arsenal was officially confirmed on Friday afternoon. These movements add to a summer exodus that has already seen Morgan Rogers, Lucas Digne, and Youri Tielemans leave the club. Emery described the current situation as a routine process of losing players and finding adequate replacements to maintain squad balance.

Regarding Watkins, Emery stated that while he views the player as a "fantastic striker" whom the club has consistently supported, the situation remains fluid. The manager emphasized that any sale would require a "good option" that allows him to replace the player within the current roster. Watkins has experienced fluctuations in performance levels during his tenure, yet he remains a central figure in the team's attacking plans as the deadline approaches.

New Signings and Market Strategy

Despite the loss of several key starters, Emery insists that Aston Villa have conducted an "intelligent market" during this window. The club has finalized deals for six new players to bolster the first-team squad. Joining Suzuki at Villa Park are Johan Manzambi, João Gomes, Matteo Ruggeri, Alejandro Garnacho, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The manager expressed excitement regarding these acquisitions, stating the club knows exactly what it wants to achieve for the upcoming year.

In addition to the confirmed arrivals, Villa are reportedly monitoring other targets. Sources indicate the club holds an interest in Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, who is currently the subject of loan negotiations with Atlético Madrid. This interest aligns with Emery’s stated goal of ensuring the team remains competitive regardless of which senior players depart before the window shuts.

Preparation for Brighton Opener

Villa’s immediate focus shifts to the pitch this Sunday for their first fixture of the Premier League season at Brighton. Emery maintains that if Watkins remains with the group, he expects the striker to continue performing at his established level. The manager reiterated his motivation for the new campaign, citing the club's strategic planning as a primary driver for his optimism. The next 10 days will determine the final makeup of the squad as the club navigates the closing stages of the summer transfer period.