Ollie Watkins rejects Fenerbahçe transfer as Aston Villa hold firm on £70m stance

Ollie Watkins has firmly rejected a potential move to Fenerbahçe, with Aston Villa standing firm against a £70m transfer offer reported in Turkish media. The striker, who remains under contract until 2028, has shown no desire to leave Villa Park despite the financial lure of Turkey.

Turkish outlets have repeatedly linked Fenerbahçe with a bid for Ollie Watkins, especially after Aston Villa defeated them 1-0 in the Europa League league phase on 22 Jan 2026. But neither the club nor Watkins have shown any openness to a deal. BirminghamLive sources confirm Villa’s stance is absolute: they will not entertain offers unless an astronomical sum is presented: far beyond the £70m figure circulating.

At 29, Watkins is in his prime, scoring and assisting consistently through the 2025-26 season. He’s not just a goal threat: he’s the focal point of Unai Emery’s attack. Selling him for £40m or even £70m would leave Villa unable to replace his output, especially with his contract running until 2028. His form last month, including a decisive goal against Manchester United on 15 May, proves he’s still elite.

Aston Villa’s priority is keeping their core intact. Players like Watkins, Konsa, and Tielemans all have two years left on their deals. The club sees value in retaining them rather than cashing in now. Financial pressures exist, but Watkins isn’t the player to offload. His market value is higher staying put than moving to the Turkish Süper Lig, where the competition level and exposure are significantly lower.

A new deal isn’t guaranteed, but it’s the most likely path. Villa have extended Watkins before: most recently in 2023: and they know his loyalty. With only two years left, the window to lock him down is closing. If he doesn’t sign soon, Villa risk losing him for free in 2028. For now, though, his focus is on the next Premier League campaign, not a move abroad.