Sky Italy: Watkins Could Leave, Aston Villa Interested in Leao, Player Open to Leaving Milan

According to Italy's Sky Sport, Aston Villa have made a request to sign Portuguese forward Rafael Leao from AC Milan. Villa are very interested in the winger and hope to strengthen Unai Emery's attacking options due to uncertainty surrounding Watkins' future.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Aston Villa have sent an offer to AC Milan forward Rafael Leao. The English club are very interested in the Portuguese winger, and the player has also indicated that he is willing to move. Villa and AC Milan have made contact, and the two sides will hold talks in an effort to reach an agreement before the September 1 transfer deadline.

Leao can play as a centre-forward or left winger. Last season, he made 29 appearances in Serie A, scoring 9 goals and providing 3 assists. Due to the uncertainty over Ollie Watkins' future at the club, Villa hope to strengthen their forward line.

Sky Sport News reported that Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal are in negotiations with Watkins over a possible signing, but at least one offer has been rejected.

Watkins was not included in the squad for Sunday's 0-4 defeat to Brighton. After the match, when asked about the situation, Villa manager Emery told Sky Sport: "Ask him. I can only keep silent." Reports later stated that the England forward returned to training on Monday and apologized to his teammates for his absence.