Ollie Watkins signs new long-term Aston Villa contract
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has committed his future to the club by signing a new long-term contract, the Premier League side confirmed on Tuesday. The new deal is understood to run until the summer of 2028, securing the services of the England international as the club prepares for a crucial period on multiple fronts.
Watkins, 28, has been a pivotal figure for Villa under manager Unai Emery, enjoying his most prolific season to date. He has scored 22 goals across all competitions this campaign, playing a central role in Villa's push for a top-four Premier League finish and their ongoing Europa League quarter-final tie against Bologna. His form earned him a recall to the England squad in March, where he scored in the friendly against Belgium.
The contract extension represents a significant piece of business for Villa, effectively ending speculation about the striker's future amid interest from several rival clubs. Watkins joined Villa from Brentford in the summer of 2020 for a then-club record fee of £28 million, potentially rising to £33 million. He has since made over 180 appearances for the club, scoring 76 goals.
For Aston Villa, securing Watkins is a statement of intent as they aim to consolidate their status as a Champions League contender. His goals have been indispensable to Emery's system, which relies on his pace, movement, and finishing. The new contract also protects the club's asset value, ensuring they are in a strong position should any major offers materialise in future transfer windows.
From the player's perspective, the deal rewards his outstanding development and confirms his status as a cornerstone of the project at Villa Park. Speaking to the club's official media, Watkins expressed his delight at finalising the agreement. "I feel amazing. I’m really, really happy to commit my future to the club and I’m just looking forward to the next few years and what we can achieve," he said. Manager Unai Emery added that Watkins is "a very important player for us" and that his commitment is "great news for everyone."
The announcement comes at a key juncture in Villa's season, providing a boost ahead of their European second leg against Bologna and the final Premier League run-in. With Watkins's future now settled, the focus shifts entirely to on-pitch objectives, with the club still competing in two competitions. His continued presence offers stability and a proven source of goals as Villa seeks to secure a historic return to Europe's top club competition.
