A new step brings Watkins closer to Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia

England star closes in on the leader

England striker Ollie Watkins has added fresh fuel to speculation over his future, taking a new step on his official Instagram account just as negotiations with Al-Hilal reach their decisive stage.

The Aston Villa forward has scrubbed the club's name from his profile. Followers seized on the striking gesture as a fresh sign that his time on Villa's books is running out, particularly with talk of a move to the Roshn League gathering pace.

Behind the scenes, Al-Hilal press on to get the deal done. Watkins has emerged as their standout target to strengthen the attack, and confidence is growing that a final agreement with Villa is within reach.

Fabrizio Romano revealed that Watkins has already agreed personal terms with Al-Hilal. All that remains is an accord between the Saudi club and Villa on the transfer fee, the one obstacle still standing in the way.

Al-Hilal are keen to add a new striker to their ranks, and Watkins fits the bill. The uncertainty over Karim Benzema only sharpens that need, with the Frenchman linked with an exit during the current window.

Deleting the club's name from a profile is no official announcement. But the timing could hardly be more striking, another twist in a saga that has become one of the most compelling files of the Saudi transfer window. A final decision is expected in the coming hours.