Al-Hilal confidence growing in landing Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins

Al-Hilal are confident of finalising a deal for England striker Ollie Watkins after the forward confirmed to Aston Villa that he wants to leave for the Middle East, TEAMtalk understands.

TEAMtalk revealed earlier this week that Watkins has agreed personal terms with Al-Hilal and has now made his desire to move to Saudi Arabia clear to Villa.

The Saudi giants turned to Watkins after holding exploratory talks over moves for Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen.

Watkins has also turned down a new four-year contract from Villa as he looks to bring his time at the club to an end.

His decision has now had a major impact on Villa’s plans, with Watkins not considered for Sunday’s trip to Brighton after barely training in the build-up to the match.

TEAMtalk understands Watkins made it clear to Unai Emery that he wanted to leave, and Villa travelled to Brighton without a recognised senior striker for the game, which they went on to lose 4-0.

Emery was asked about Watkins’ absence after the match and refused to shed light on the situation.

“This question is for him. I can answer only with my silence,” the Villa boss said.

Asked whether Watkins had refused to play, Emery added: “I think you call his agent and he can respond.”

Those comments have only increased speculation over the forward’s future, but TEAMtalk understands the situation is now increasingly clear.

Al-Hilal have already seen up to four bids rejected by Villa, but sources with knowledge of the negotiations have confirmed to TEAMtalk that a deal is now understood to be close.

Watkins is therefore gearing up to leave Villa Park, with the final breakthrough expected to centre on the transfer fee between the clubs.

READ MORE: Aston Villa ‘in contact’ to sign World Cup centre-back after securing former Euro giant midfielder

Al-Hilal want Gabriel Martinelli transfer

Al-Hilal are also working on another major Premier League deal and are in talks with Arsenal over Gabriel Martinelli.

TEAMtalk understands Martinelli is considering the possibility of a move to Saudi Arabia after previously shunning interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray.

The Brazilian is understood to be open to the idea, and Al-Hilal are exploring whether a deal can be reached with Arsenal as they continue to reshape their attacking options.

Villa are already working on reinforcements and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson remains their top target as they prepare for Watkins’ departure.