Al-Hilal ready improved offer for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins

Al-Hilal are preparing a new bid for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as they continue to search for a potential replacement for Karim Benzema, whose future at the Saudi Pro League club remains uncertain.

The Saudi club have already made an initial approach for the 30-year-old, offering about 45m euros for his services. Aston Villa rejected that proposal, but negotiations have continued because of Al-Hilal’s determination to complete the deal and Watkins’ reported interest in starting a new chapter in the Saudi league.

According to an exclusive report by TEAMtalk published on Friday, Al-Hilal are now ready to return with an improved financial offer after discussions with Aston Villa gave them a clearer understanding of the English club’s asking price.

Aston Villa are believed to be seeking about 65m euros before agreeing to sell their striker. However, sources familiar with the negotiations indicate that an offer worth 60m euros could be enough to secure an agreement between the two clubs.

The main advantage for Al-Hilal is that terms have already been agreed with Watkins, according to the same report. That means the principal obstacle is no longer the player’s personal conditions, but reaching a fee acceptable to Aston Villa.

The potential move is being pursued while Al-Hilal continue to assess Benzema’s position. The France international recently said he would remain with the team for the time being, but the club have yet to make a final decision about his long-term future.

As a result, any move for Watkins would be linked to a wider decision over Al-Hilal’s central attacking position and the way the club plan to manage Benzema’s role. The Saudi side are therefore continuing their work in the transfer market while waiting for greater clarity over the French forward.

Watkins has emerged as one of Al-Hilal’s leading choices to strengthen their attack before the summer transfer window closes. The club’s first offer was not accepted, but the ongoing talks suggest they have not abandoned their pursuit.

The difference between Aston Villa’s reported valuation and the figure Al-Hilal may be prepared to pay now appears to be relatively narrow. With personal terms reportedly settled, the next stage of the process will depend on whether the Saudi club can meet Aston Villa’s demands with their revised proposal.

Al-Hilal’s interest in Watkins comes against the backdrop of continued uncertainty surrounding Benzema, despite his latest comments about staying at the club. Until that situation is resolved, the club’s plans for adding another striker remain closely tied to the future of their current France international forward.