Manchester United’s preference to place their trust in Premier League-tested players this summer has made Ollie Watkins one of their priority striker targets.
Ruben Amorim has already confirmed Premier League experience was a factor in United’s moves for Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. The pair scored a combined 35 goals in England’s top flight last season.
In that regard, there are very few players better suited to United’s needs than Watkins. The 29-year-old is considered one of the most well-rounded attackers in England.
He made his debut in the competition in September 2020. Since then, only Mohamed Salah (111) and Erling Haaland (85) have scored more goals than him (75).
Villa are reluctant to lose their number nine, who has three years left to run on his contract at Villa Park. They demanded £60 million when Arsenal made an approach for the ex-Brentford star in January.
Watkins’ desire could help Manchester United
However, United seemingly believe a deal for Watkins is possible, as it is understood they have held talks to “establish some details around a move.”
According to Talksport journalist Ben Jacobs, the Englishman is very open to moving to Old Trafford.
Jacobs adds that sources close to the Birmingham outfit hint that an offer of £50m might stand a chance, especially if the Villa star “drives for a move away.”
Under Ineos, United have preferred to sign players with a resale value. Considering Watkins’ age, he might not bring that to the table, but he would certainly guarantee goals.
Manchester United risk falling behind in the race to sign Sesko
The Red Devils are also believed to be monitoring Benjamin Sesko’s situation at RB Leipzig.
Jacobs suggests that United need to act quickly if they want to sign the Slovenian as Newcastle United are “advanced on the player side.” The Magpies are also in talks with the Bundesliga outfit.
As per multiple reports, Leipzig are hoping to fetch around £70m from Sesko’s sale. However, United are unlikely to be able to afford such a figure without major sales.
Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images
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Vishal Singh
Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
