Ollie Watkins Joins Aston Villa From Brentford on Five-Year Deal

09 September 2020 13:46

Aston Villa have confirmed the arrival of Ollie Watkins from Brentford, with the forward signing a five-year deal.

The 24-year-old enjoyed an excellent 2019/20 season in the Championship with Brentford, netting 26 times in 49 appearances. As a result of his fine form, a number of clubs had shown an interest in Watkins this summer, before Aston Villa won the race for the attacker.

Villa have now confirmed the arrival of Watkins, with the striker signing a five-year deal. It is understood the Premier League outfit have paid in excess of £25m for his services, with the fee potentially rising above £30m with add-ons.

Speaking following Watkins' arrival, Villa boss Dean Smith told the club's website: “Ollie has developed into one of the most sought-after strikers in the country and we are looking forward to seeing him show his great qualities in an Aston Villa shirt.

“He is a hugely determined character who has both the ability and personality to succeed at the highest level."

Watkins, meanwhile, admitted he is excited to be linking up with Smith once again, after the pair worked together during the boss' time with Brentford. He added: “I am so excited to join Aston Villa and to reunite with Dean Smith as my Head Coach.

"I cannot wait to wear the famous claret and blue in the Premier League. I want to do something special here and score some goals.”

Watkins becomes the Villans' second major signing of the summer transfer window, following the recent arrival of Matty Cash for around £14m. While the signing of the Englishman will come as a major boost for Smith, it has been suggested the club will not stop there with regards to bringing in attacking reinforcements.

Villa have made a push to sign Josh King this summer as well | Trond Tandberg/Getty Images

Smith is still keen to bring in another forward this summer. 90min learned prior to his move to Newcastle that Aston Villa would target Callum Wilson once they had wrapped up a deal for Watkins. Of course, with this now not possible, they have turned their attentions elsewhere and have made a £16m bid to sign Josh King from Bournemouth.

They also remain interested in Celtic's Odsonne Edouard and Liverpool's Rhian Brewster.

Source: 90min