Aston Villa transfer news: Ollie Watkins update provided as Unai Emery admits to "issue" amid Al-Hilal talk

Unai Emery has admitted that Aston Villa have "an issue" to resolve with Ollie Watkins, who has been linked with Al-Hilal.

As Villa prepare to face Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday, Emery continues to contend with frequent incomings and outgoings.

On Friday, Aaron Wan-Bissaka arriving on loan from West Ham United was followed by Ezri Konsa completing a transfer to Arsenal.

However, speculation persists that other players could leave Villa Park, including Watkins who is wanted to Al-Hilal.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Emery acknowledged that there had been offers for the England international.

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Aston Villa have a transfer "issue" with Watkins, admits Emery

While the Spaniard stated that he did not want to sell Watkins, he conceded that it remained a possibility.

Emery told reporters: "We have an issue with him, it's clear. He is our player. We have had offers for him.

"I don't want to sell him but it can change because if it's a good option for him and the club and I can replace him in the squad, this is the routine we have and we did before with the players who are leaving.

"With Ollie he is here, for me he is a fantastic striker, we have always believed in him.

"Now he is our player, there are 10 days more or less to finish the transfer window, we will see what happens, I'm happy with him, if he is staying with us he will continue playing his level."

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Will Watkins face Brighton?

Watkins is behind the rest of the squad in terms of fitness, a consequence of his late return from the summer break.

He has not played any football since the World Cup third-placed playoff on July 18, likely meaning that he will be named on the substitutes' bench at best.

With Brian Madjo among a number of players who are sidelined, Tammy Abraham appears likely to start down the centre of Villa's attack at the Amex Stadium.