Unai Emery has made it clear he wants Ollie Watkins to stay at Aston Villa despite continued interest from Al Hilal, with Nicolas Jackson being considered as a potential replacement if the striker leaves.
Al Hilal have made several attempts to sign Watkins this summer. Their latest offer, reportedly submitted on Friday, was worth £45m, but Villa rejected it.
With around ten days remaining in the transfer window, Emery admits the situation could still change.
Emery wants Watkins to stay at Villa
Watkins remains an important player for Emery after another productive campaign.
The 30-year-old missed only one Premier League match last season and registered 19 goals and assists, while also featuring 15 times during Villa's successful Europa League campaign.
Speaking ahead of the Premier League opener against Brighton, Emery confirmed offers have arrived but stressed that his preference is to keep Watkins.
“I don’t want to sell him but it can change because if it’s a good option for him and the club and I can replace him in the squad, this is the routine we have,” Emery said.
“With Ollie, he is here, for me he is a fantastic striker, we have always believed in him.”
The Villa boss added that he would be happy for Watkins to remain and continue playing an important role this season.
Nicolas Jackson lined up as possible replacement
Villa are preparing for every scenario and Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson is among the players being considered should Watkins depart.
Jackson returned to Chelsea after spending last season on loan at Bayern Munich, who decided against making the transfer permanent.
The Senegal international is currently training separately from Chelsea's first team alongside several players expected to leave Stamford Bridge before the deadline.
Villa have already done business with Chelsea this summer by taking Alejandro Garnacho on loan, and Jackson is reportedly highly regarded at Villa Park.
The 25-year-old could therefore become a serious option if Al Hilal return with an offer Villa are prepared to accept for Watkins.
Villa face striker concern for Brighton
Emery also has an immediate problem ahead of Saturday's trip to Brighton.
Watkins and Tammy Abraham are both unlikely to feature, while Brian Madjo is injured. Villa could therefore begin their Premier League campaign without a recognised fit centre-forward.
That situation only increases the importance of resolving Watkins' future and ensuring Emery has sufficient attacking options before the window closes.
Key Points
- Al Hilal have had multiple offers rejected for Ollie Watkins.
- Their latest proposal was reportedly worth £45m.
- Emery has publicly stated that he does not want to sell Watkins.
- Nicolas Jackson is being considered as a possible replacement.
- Jackson is currently training away from Chelsea's first team.
- Villa could face Brighton without a recognised fit striker.
What's Next?
Villa expect further uncertainty around Watkins until the transfer deadline. Emery wants him to stay, but the manager has also acknowledged a sale could be considered if the deal suits Villa and they can secure the right replacement.
Should Aston Villa reject any further Al Hilal offers for Ollie Watkins, or would Nicolas Jackson be a strong enough replacement?
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