United Initiate Contact for Watkins Amid Striker Hunt
Manchester United are actively pursuing a significant upgrade to their attacking options, initiating preliminary contact regarding a potential transfer for Aston Villa`s prolific striker, Ollie Watkins. Reports indicate that intermediaries representing United have reached out to Villa to gauge the availability of the forward, as manager Ruben Amorim prioritises bringing in a more clinical presence upfront.
Watkins Identified as a Primary Target
Ollie Watkins is now understood to be a prime candidate on United`s transfer shortlist. Amorim is reportedly keen on acquiring a seasoned striker to potentially lead the line over Rasmus Hojlund.
While Hojlund arrived for a substantial £72 million fee in 2023 and showed glimpses of potential, his return of just four Premier League goals last season has reportedly left Amorim “seriously underwhelmed.” This has prompted the club`s recruitment team to target a proven goalscorer.
Valuation and Strategic Considerations
Aston Villa currently values Watkins at approximately £60 million, a figure they stood firm on during Arsenal`s interest in January. United are evaluating whether to meet this asking price, considering factors such as the striker`s age and contract duration, which might limit long-term resale value.
With Watkins` contract running until 2028, Villa holds a strong negotiating position. However, there is optimism that the player would be significantly “enticed” by the opportunity to join a club of United`s stature and potentially spearhead a new era under Amorim at Old Trafford.
Gyokeres Remains on the Radar
While Watkins is now a firm target, he is not the only striker United are considering. Viktor Gyokeres, who excelled under Amorim at Sporting CP, is still seen by the manager as an ideal fit for the team. Competition from other clubs, particularly Arsenal, could impact the pursuit of the Swedish international. Should Arsenal successfully sign Benjamin Sesko, United`s chances of landing Gyokeres would reportedly increase.
Sources suggest that Gyokeres` departure from Sporting is expected sooner rather than later, adding urgency to United`s striker search. Given other potential targets are moving quickly, securing a high-calibre backup option like Watkins is now considered crucial.
Existing Relationship Could Aid Negotiations
An established “open line of communication” exists between Manchester United and Aston Villa, partly due to the recent loan arrangement involving Marcus Rashford. This existing relationship could prove beneficial in expediting talks should United decide to accelerate their pursuit of Watkins, aligning with Amorim`s desire to resolve the striker situation promptly this summer.
Analysis: Why Watkins Fits United
Targeting a player like Ollie Watkins indicates a clear strategic shift under Ruben Amorim towards securing immediate impact players. After a season where consistent goalscoring was an issue, Watkins` proven Premier League record – including nineteen league goals last season for a non-dominant Villa side – makes him an attractive prospect who could potentially thrive under pressure at Old Trafford. His profile as a prolific, in-form striker aligns with the need for a reliable forward capable of linking up effectively with creative players.
