Manchester United have received a potential boost in their pursuit of signing Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins this summer.
Manchester United are planning a major overhaul of their attacking options this summer after a disappointing 2024/25 season that saw them slump to 15th in the Premier League, with a lack of goals proving to be a key issue.
The club has already made a bold move by signing Matheus Cunha in a £62.5 million deal and are currently in talks to bring in Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo.
In addition, the search for a proven centre-forward continues, with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins emerging as a potential target.
Watkins, who has netted 44 goals over the past two seasons, is seen as a reliable, Premier League-tested option for Ruben Amorim’s squad.
United receive potential Watkins boost as Villa identify replacement
One of the stumbling blocks involving a deal for the England international is that he’s Villa’s only recognised striker at the moment.
However, it is now being claimed that Unai Emery’s side have identified a potential striker signing this summer which could lead to Watkins’ exit.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Villa are interested in Porto striker Samu Aghehowa, who the Primeira Liga side are willing to sell.
Porto have priced Aghehowa at £69 million and the Midlands side have identified him as a possible replacement for Watkins, which suggests they are prepared for his exit.
United fans demanding experience up front
United’s need for a striker is obvious and their two primary targets when entering the window – Liam Delap and Viktor Gyokeres – have chosen other destinations.
Watkins is an experienced option and older than both of those players. He would become the oldest signing made under INEOS leadership if a move happens.
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Many fans believe that is the exact kind of decision the club need to make, with the inexperience of players like Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee being obvious last term.
It remains to be seen whether the Reds actually make a move for Watkins, and it will depend on whether they can actually make sales, but it seems like Villa are preparing for that possibility.
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