Aston Villa are reportedly considering selling Ollie Watkins in the summer transfer window. The West Midlands outfit are currently on an extended break before their Europa League quarter-final against Bologna.
Villa’s Financial Considerations
Villa may take the opportunity to sell the England international when the market reopens in June, according to reports. The club are contemplating whether now is the right time to sign an upgrade.
Selling Watkins would significantly help their position with the relevant financial regulations. Villa have effectively been required to wheel and deal if they have wanted to make additions to the squad in recent transfer windows.
A former scout suggested that sales may need to come before purchases. He said that Watkins could be sold at the end of the season because of their financial issues, as they haven’t been able to spend big in recent transfer windows because of the financial rules.
There are a few players at Villa who could be sold, but in terms of big names who they can make money from, Watkins of course would be an option.
Watkins’ Villa Legacy and Future
Watkins has 97 goals and 44 assists from 266 appearances since 2020. He is already established as a Villa legend.
With two years left on his contract, both the club and player are at a crossroads. Villa are aware that they need to secure a contract renewal if they are to retain his services.
Furthermore, with Watkins now 30 years of age, his valuation will decrease going forward. At a time when Tammy Abraham has been signed in January, now feels like the right time for Villa to sell Watkins.
If Villa qualify for the Champions League, Watkins may feel inclined to push to remain in the West Midlands, or only contemplate a transfer to a club competing in European football’s premier competition.
Despite scoring in the recent 2-0 win over West Ham United, Watkins has only managed 10 goals and two assists in 40 appearances in the Premier League and Europa League this season. Unai Emery may be satisfied to have some time away from the pitch at this time in the season, the hope being that some of his key players can recuperate and rediscover their best form.