Ollie Watkins set to leave Aston Villa this summer after financial pressure mounts

Ollie Watkins looks set to become Aston Villa’s next major exit this summer after financial pressure forced the club to consider another sale.

John Percy, the Telegraph journalist, reported on 19 July 2026 that Villa may need to sell another star before the transfer window closes to meet UEFA’s financial rules. “Villa are determined to resist any more major sales but the simple truth is they may have to accept another departure this summer,” Percy wrote. The club already lost Lucas Digne and Morgan Rogers, while Youri Tielemans left earlier in the window.

Why is Ollie Watkins in the crosshairs?

Watkins struggled for form for much of last season but still finished with 21 goals in 55 matches. He turned 30 in January 2026 and has not yet agreed a contract extension. His deal runs until 2028, but Villa need funds to stay compliant with UEFA’s profitability rules. Fenerbahce have reportedly registered interest, making him a prime candidate to leave.

Villa’s hierarchy see Ezri Konsa as harder to replace than Watkins, despite Konsa being two years younger. Emiliano Martinez, the club’s first-choice keeper, has three years left on his deal and is unlikely to attract a big enough offer before he turns 34 in September 2026.

What happens if Watkins leaves?

Villa would lose a proven Premier League goalscorer. The club already lacks depth in attack, and selling Watkins could force them to bring in two new centre-forwards before the window shuts. Chelsea have offered Liam Delap to Villa after his difficult debut season in West London. Nicolas Jackson, another Chelsea striker, is also a reported target, while Al Qadsiah’s Julian Quinones is on Villa’s radar.

Can Aston Villa resist another sale?

Villa want to keep hold of Konsa and Martinez, but financial reality may force their hand. Emery has already blocked Konsa’s exit once this summer after Arsenal’s reported bid. The club’s Europa League triumph in May 2026 signalled the end of an era at Villa Park, with several key men moving on.

Percy’s report underlines the tension between sporting ambition and financial prudence. If Watkins goes, Villa’s attack will need urgent reinforcement to avoid a goals drought next term.