Al Hilal Pursue Double Premier League Swoop for Ollie Watkins and Gabriel Martinelli

The Riyadh-based club have identified a new centre-forward and winger as priorities, with Aston Villa striker Watkins currently the closer of the two deals.

Watkins has already agreed personal terms with Al Hilal, leaving the Saudi club to negotiate a transfer fee with Aston Villa. The England international was left out of Villa's squad for their opening Premier League match against Brighton, amid growing speculation over his future.

Al Hilal have made several approaches for the 30-year-old, with their latest offer reportedly worth around £45 million rejected by Villa. The Saudi club are expected to return with an improved proposal, with a fee in the region of £50 million believed to have the potential to secure the striker.

Watkins has been Villa's leading Premier League goalscorer for six consecutive seasons since arriving from Brentford in 2020. His potential departure would represent a major change for Unai Emery's side, who are already considering replacements, including Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson.

Martinelli also on Inzaghi's radar

Al Hilal are simultaneously pursuing Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli as they look to complete a major double swoop from the Premier League.

The Brazilian has become increasingly open to a move to Saudi Arabia, with Al Hilal having submitted an opening offer understood to be close to £50 million. Arsenal have yet to accept the proposal, but reports indicate that negotiations remain active.

Martinelli has not featured in Arsenal's matchday squads for either of their opening games of the season, further fuelling speculation about his future. The 25-year-old was omitted from the Community Shield squad against Manchester City before also missing the Premier League victory over Coventry City.

Reports suggest Arsenal could be willing to sanction Martinelli's departure if the right offer arrives, although the club would need to consider how to replace the Brazil international before agreeing to a sale.

Al Hilal targeting attacking overhaul

The pursuit of Watkins and Martinelli reflects Inzaghi's plans to significantly strengthen Al Hilal's attack.

Watkins would provide the Saudi club with an experienced centre-forward, while Martinelli would add pace and versatility on the wing. Al Hilal are therefore attempting to address both attacking positions during the final stages of the transfer window.

The club have already made room in their squad by allowing Darwin Nunez to join Al-Diriyah on loan, freeing up a foreign-player slot. Al Hilal are also dealing with uncertainty surrounding veteran striker Karim Benzema, whose future could influence their plans for a new centre-forward.

For now, Watkins remains the player closest to completing a move, with personal terms already agreed. Martinelli's situation is less advanced, but his name remains high on Inzaghi's list as Al Hilal pursue an ambitious Premier League double.

With the transfer window approaching its conclusion, the Saudi giants face negotiations with both Aston Villa and Arsenal if they are to turn their plans into a remarkable double signing.