𝐀𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝐓𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐎𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐬’ 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐀𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫…𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞

In a stunning turn of events, Aston Villa have confirmed the early termination of Ollie Watkins’ contract, paving the way for the England international to join Sunderland as a free agent ahead of next season. The announcement, made late Thursday evening, sent shockwaves through the Premier League and Championship alike, ending Watkins’ four-year spell at Villa Park.

 

Watkins, who joined Villa from Brentford in 2020, quickly established himself as one of the most reliable forwards in English football. Known for his tireless work rate, clinical finishing, and versatility, the 29-year-old was instrumental in Villa’s rise under Unai Emery, contributing crucial goals during their European qualification campaigns. His departure comes as a major surprise, especially given he signed a long-term contract extension just two years ago, set to run until 2028.

 

According to club sources, the decision was made following “mutual discussions” between Watkins and the Aston Villa hierarchy. The striker reportedly sought a new challenge, while Villa were open to reshaping their attacking options ahead of the 2026–27 season.

 

Sunderland, meanwhile, have moved quickly to secure his signature. The Black Cats, aiming for a strong push in the Championship and potential Premier League promotion, view Watkins as the ideal figurehead for their project. His arrival is expected to boost both morale and experience within a youthful Sunderland squad.

 

Fans of both clubs have expressed mixed emotions — Villa supporters bidding farewell to a fan favorite, while Sunderland fans celebrate the arrival of a proven top-flight goalscorer. Watkins is set to officially join the Wearside club on a free transfer in the summer, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his career.