England international Ollie Watkins has joined Al Hilal from Aston Villa, the Saudi Pro League club has announced.
Watkins becomes the latest high profile departure for Villa this summer, with Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans, Lucas Digne and Ezri Konsa all leaving the club.
Watkins took to social media to thank Aston Villa fans "from the bottom of my heart" after his departure was confirmed.
"Firstly, I'd like to say never did I intend, nor did I imagine my time at Aston Villa would end this way," Watkins said in a video posted on Instagram.
"With that being said I'm eternally grateful for the last six years. Not only has it shaped me as a player, but as a person. We've been through so many ups and downs during my six seasons here.
"But one thing that has never changed is that I've given everything for this club. From my first goals in the 7-2 win against Liverpool, getting the club back into Europe, the Champions League nights at Villa Park to that unforgettable night in Istanbul."
"It's time for a new chapter that I'm excited about. However, I close this chapter with a heavy heart. Villa will always mean so much to me. Thank you guys, from the bottom of my heart."
The 30-year-old joined Villa in 2020 after a successful spell at Brentford.
In May, Watkins scored his 75th Premier League goal for Villa which saw him overtake Gabriel Agbonlahor as the club's record goalscorer in the league.
He has scored 108 goals in 278 games for Villa, heling them win the UEFA Europa League last season.
During his time at Villa Park he also debuted for England in 2021 and has won 24 caps, scoring seven goals.
"Capable of scoring different types of goals with a ruthless streak, allied to a selfless work ethic for his team's benefit, Watkins leaves Villa having played his part in our UEFA Europa League victory and with the very best wishes of everyone at the football club," a Villa statement read.
Villa have already signed Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea to replace Watkins.
Information from PA contributed to this report.
