Aston Villa Make Enquiry for Joshua Zirkzee as Ollie Watkins’ Future Comes Under Pressure

Villa have contacted United to establish the conditions of a potential deal for the Netherlands international, according to Fabrizio Romano. At this stage, the approach is understood to be an enquiry rather than advanced negotiations.

The move comes as Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal continue their pursuit of Watkins. Aston Villa have already rejected offers for the England striker, while manager Unai Emery has acknowledged that the forward could leave if an agreement that satisfies both the player and the club can be reached.

Al-Hilal are reportedly preparing to increase their offer after Villa turned down an initial proposal. The Saudi club are believed to be targeting Watkins as they look to strengthen their attacking options, with the striker reportedly open to the possibility of moving to Saudi Arabia.

Zirkzee emerges as potential replacement

Should Watkins depart, Villa would need to add another striker to their squad, and Zirkzee has now emerged as one of the options under consideration.

The 25-year-old joined Manchester United from Bologna in 2024 but has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter. His situation has attracted interest from several clubs this summer, including Napoli and Juventus.

Villa's interest in Zirkzee is therefore linked directly to the uncertainty surrounding Watkins. The club are also exploring other attacking options as Emery prepares for the possibility of losing his leading striker.

Watkins has been a key figure for Villa since arriving from Brentford in 2020 and has become one of the club's most productive forwards. His departure would leave a significant gap in Emery's squad, particularly with Villa competing across domestic and European competitions.

Watkins decision could shape Villa's transfer plans

Villa have already experienced considerable squad turnover during the summer, with several established players leaving while the club have invested heavily in new additions.

Emery has admitted that further departures could form part of the club's restructuring, although he has previously expressed his hope that Watkins would remain at Villa Park.

With Al-Hilal continuing to push for the England international, Villa are now preparing for different scenarios. Zirkzee represents one potential solution should Watkins leave, although no agreement has been reached with Manchester United at this stage.

For now, Watkins remains a Villa player, but the growing Saudi interest has prompted the club to examine alternatives. The coming days could determine whether their enquiry for Zirkzee develops into a formal approach and whether Watkins begins a new chapter in the Saudi Pro League.