Aston Villa offers Ollie Watkins new contract amid transfer interest
Aston Villa have reportedly offered Ollie Watkins a lucrative new contract until 2030 as they attempt to fend off mounting interest in the England striker, reports BritPanorama.
The 30-year-old has emerged as a target for several clubs this summer following another prolific campaign at Villa Park. Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal have shown the strongest interest and have already submitted three offers for Watkins, with their latest proposal believed to be worth £38 million, which was rejected by Villa.
Recognising the importance of retaining their star forward, the Midlands club has made its intentions clear by offering a significant contract extension that would keep Watkins at Villa Park until 2030, according to reports. The striker still has two years remaining on his existing agreement, which means Villa are under no immediate pressure to sell.
Watkins has yet to accept the new terms, but the offer underscores Unai Emery’s determination to keep one of his most crucial players ahead of another Champions League campaign. The England international was instrumental in Villa’s impressive 2025-26 season, scoring 16 goals across 37 Premier League appearances, contributing to their fourth-place finish and securing qualification for Europe’s elite competition.
Furthermore, Watkins played a decisive role in their Europa League triumph, netting five goals and providing two assists in 15 appearances, solidifying his status as a key player for Villa. Maintaining his presence is increasingly critical following a summer of significant departures, including Morgan Rogers’s blockbuster £117 million move to Chelsea and Ezri Konsa’s impending transfer to Arsenal.
With Villa already losing influential squad members, retaining Watkins could be key to the club’s ambitions as they seek to build on their recent successes.
As the transfer window nears its close, the decision now rests with Watkins as he considers the opportunity to commit his future to Villa until 2030. This unfolding saga highlights both the athletes’ pull in modern football and the challenges clubs face in holding onto their talent in an ever-competitive landscape.
