Striker Ollie Watkins could leave Aston Villa before the transfer deadline, with manager Unai Emery unable to guarantee his future. Saudi club Al-Hilal has made offers, and Emery confirmed that while he doesn't want to sell, the 30-year-old's departure is possible if it benefits all parties.

Watkins has scored 108 goals for Villa since joining from Brentford for £28m in 2020, making him the club's record Premier League scorer. His potential exit would continue Villa's summer exodus, which has already seen Ezri Konsa move to Arsenal for £51m and Morgan Rogers join Chelsea for a record £117m.

Emery stated: "We have an issue with him, it's clear. He is our player. We have had offers for him." The manager emphasized that any transfer must work for the player, the club, and the team.

Additionally, goalkeeper Emi Martinez's move to Juventus collapsed due to fee disagreements. Villa signed Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma for £30m as their new goalkeeper, though Martinez will miss Sunday's Premier League opener against Brighton after having only one training session following his post-World Cup break.