ImportantOllie Watkins completes £51m move to Saudi side Al-Hilal from Aston Villa

Ollie Watkins Seals £51m Transfer to Al-Hilal, Leaving Aston Villa After Six Years

BBC Sport
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Ollie Watkins has officially completed his £51m transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal from Aston Villa. The 30-year-old striker, who stands as Villa's record Premier League scorer with 91 goals, has signed a three-year contract with the club.

During his six-year tenure at Villa, Watkins played a pivotal role in the team's ascent under manager Unai Emery. His contributions helped establish the club as regular contenders for the top six in the Premier League and secure the Europa League, marking their first European trophy in 44 years.

In a recent development, Watkins made himself unavailable for Villa's Premier League opener against Brighton, an absence that Emery confirmed was acknowledged by Watkins with an apology.

Watkins expressed his feelings on social media, stating:

"Firstly, I would like to say, never did I intend, nor did I imagine, my time at Aston Villa would end this way. With that being said, I am eternally grateful for the last six years. Not only has it shaped me as a player, but as a person. We've been through so many ups and downs in my six seasons here, but one thing that has never changed is that I have given everything for this club."

The football world awaits further updates on Watkins' new journey at Al-Hilal.

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