Manchester United have set their value for Ollie Watkins, even as Aston Villa hold out for a big fee for the striker.
Watkins on United’s striker wishlist
United head coach Ruben Amorim is on the hunt for a proven goalscorer to lead the line after an extremely underwhelming 2024/25 season, and Watkins has emerged as an option for the club.
In the current transfer window, United’s policy has been centred on signing players who are already familiar with the Premier League, as evidenced by the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brentford respectively.
Watkins falls in this category, with the England international considered one of the best talismans in the top flight.
He plundered an impressive 17 goals last term, 16 of which came in the Premier League. This is despite the fact that he lost his place in the team to Marcus Rashford in the latter half of the campaign.
In 2023/24, Watkins netted 19 Premier League goals while providing an additional 13 assists in 37 Premier League appearances.
A report covered by The Peoples Person earlier this month relayed that United have held talks with Watkins’ camp regarding a potential switch to Old Trafford. There is a belief that he is open to the move.
United narrow down their striker options
It’s understood that United are now looking at just two strikers – Watkins and Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig.
The Red Devils are currently assessing the requirements for both deals. Once they’ve gathered all the necessary details, the club will decide which move to prioritise.
While United seem to have a free run at Watkins, there is stiff competition from Newcastle for Sesko.
The Magpies have identified Sesko as the perfect replacement for Alexander Isak, who has made it clear that he is keen to depart St James’ Park amidst overtures from Liverpool.
United and Villa some distance apart in their valuation of Watkins
According to ESPN, there remains a significant gap between United and Villa in their valuations of Watkins.
The news outlet reveals, “United, according to sources, are confident Sesko would pick United over Newcastle — despite Eddie Howe’s team qualifying for the Champions League — if they press ahead and begin talks with RB Leipzig.”
“Villa, meanwhile, are insisting they will not let Watkins leave. There is, though, a belief at United that the right offer could tempt Villa to part with the 29-year-old, who was the subject of a bid from Arsenal in January.”
“United are unlikely to match the £60 million ($80m) offer submitted by Arsenal six months ago and instead value the England man at closer to £45m.”
ESPN note that the sales of Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia could go a long way in helping United finalise a deal for Watkins.
Featured image Richard Heathcote via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
