Ollie Watkins returned to Aston Villa training on Monday and apologised to his team-mates for missing their 4-0 defeat by Brighton – but is still expected to leave for Al Hilal.
Villa have turned down a series of bids for Watkins but the England forward is keen on the move to Saudi Arabia.
The club, meanwhile, have contacted AC Milan over a potential move for Portugal international Rafael Leao.
Villa are exploring the financial details for the 27-year-old who has been talking to Turkish clubs in recent weeks and has been on the radar of a number of Champions League sides this summer.
Unai Emery wants to strengthen his attacking options after losing Morgan Rogers to Chelsea. Rogers scored on his Premier League debut for the Blues in the 3-2 win over Fulham on Monday.
Unai Emery gave a frosty response when asked about Ollie Watkins’ absence at Brighton
Villa have contacted AC Milan about a move for winger Rafael Leao as they look to strengthen
Villa boss Emery hinted that Watkins had been reluctant to play in their Premier League opener on Sunday.
When asked about Watkins’ absence following the 4-0 defeat at the Amex Stadium, Emery said: ‘This question is for him. I can answer only with my silence.’
Pressed on whether the striker was refusing to play, Emery said: ‘I think you can call him, you can call his agent and he can respond.’
Villa have long held interest in Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson and were rebuffed in a call for Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace, as Daily Mail Sport revealed.
Villa have also held further talks with Club Brugge for defender Joel Ordonez.
