Aston Villa's head coach, Unai Emery, has confirmed Ollie Watkins' departure to Al-Hilal. He revealed that Nicolas Jackson will be the one to fill the gap left by the English striker, with the transfer from Chelsea in the final stages.
Watkins was absent from preparations for Villa's opening Premier League match against Brighton, which ended in a disappointing 0-4 defeat, amidst uncertainty surrounding his future. After the game, the forward issued apologies to his manager and teammates.
Emery shared:
Watkins apologised after the match against Brighton. He made a mistake, but he has always conducted himself well at the club and in our relationship. He’s a wonderful guy.
The manager also recounted an emotional farewell with the forward before his departure to Saudi Arabia.
Emery admitted:
I said goodbye, gave him a strong hug, and we nearly shed a few tears.
With Watkins's exit, Jackson is set to take his place in Aston Villa's attack.
Emery confirmed:
Now a new chapter begins with Nicolas Jackson. Of course, I wish Ollie all the best in Saudi Arabia. But we are replacing him.
Aston Villa is finalising the paperwork for Jackson's transfer from Chelsea. The clubs have agreed on a guaranteed fee of £47.5 million, which could rise to £65 million with bonuses.
When asked if Jackson would complete his transfer in time to feature in the home match against reigning champions Arsenal on Monday, Emery replied:
I hope so.
