Watkins' absence from the team has sparked speculation that he may be on his way out of Villa Park. Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal have had four offers rejected for Watkins, who is valued at a significant amount by Aston Villa. Al-Hilal are not near to Villa's asking price, and a deal is still believed to be some way off. Watkins has been synonymous with Villa's rise over the past six years, helping the club win the Europa League in 2021.
The 30-year-old striker has 108 goals in 278 games for Villa, who are unlikely to let him go without a fight. Villa must resolve the future of goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who is also looking to leave the club. A move to Juventus fell through earlier this month, and a solution must be found for the 33-year-old after the signing of Zion Suzuki to become the club's number one goalkeeper.
Signing a striker to replace Watkins will be harder than sourcing Konsa's replacement, on which Villa are already working. Villa have had two bids rejected by Southampton for Taylor Harwood-Bellis, and Brian Madjo's availability gives Emery an additional option.