As Manchester United’s search for a new striker to lead the line continues, Rúben Amorim’s side have received a positive update about Ollie Watkins.
Manchester United have assessed several striker options as part of Rúben Amorim’s planned rebuild for next season.
Liam Delap was initially seen as the front runner, with his £30 million relegation release clause making him an attractive option for the recruitment team. However, he has since opted to join Chelsea, reuniting with former Manchester City coach Enzo Maresca.
United then shifted their focus to Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. Cunha has already signed, and Mbeumo is open to the move, but both are expected to operate primarily as attacking midfielders, leaving the need for a true centre-forward unresolved.
Viktor Gyökeres has been touted as the man to lead the line at Old Trafford next season, but his situation at Sporting is extremely complicated, and he could opt for a move elsewhere to play Champions League football.
Therefore, United have had to consider other options, including Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins. The club have now received an update regarding a potential move this summer.
Aston Villa’s stance on Watkins sale
Watkins has recently emerged as a player that United are eyeing a move for, as the club looks to replace Rasmus Højlund’s inconsistent output.
According to United in Focus, United are well aware of Watkins and his abilities, which is the case for a number of strikers, with the club keeping tabs on those available across the market.
Watkins’ camp has been in contact with both United and Arsenal, as the West Midlands club could let the 29-year-old go to alleviate profit and sustainability regulation (PSR) issues, and that United’s interest in the player has had an “impact” at the club.
“Whilst Watkins and Villa both insist regularly they are not looking to part ways, I am told that the interest from Arsenal previously and now Man United has had some impact, and naturally so,” transfer expert Graeme Bailey told United In Focus.
“Villa have a lot going on, but we know that Watkins does have a price – could that be met this summer? I am told not to discount the possibility.”
Watkins would be a ready-made addition to the side
United’s transfer strategy this summer has seemingly centred around signing players with Premier League experience so that they can easily adapt to the physical nature of the league.
Players like Manuel Ugarte struggled for form during his debut season, despite entering the club with a great reputation as a solid defensive midfielder who could start to show his potential next season after adapting to the league’s demands.
Amorim simply doesn’t have the time to wait for players to adapt to the demands of the Premier League, and must buy players who will hit the ground running as he looks to get United back to where they should be.
While not carrying the same reputation as a striker like Gyökeres or Victor Osimhen, Watkins would still be an effective number nine, having scored 44 goals in the last two seasons.
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