Ollie Watkins Aston Villa
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Manchester Unite dare in pursuit of Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins as The Red Devils prioritise a striker this summer.
Ruben Amorim’s attacking trio has been the centre of the club’s rebuild so far this summer as United faced a dismal season in from of goal.
Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo picked up the slack on the goal scoring front as Rasmus Hojlund suffered a 21 game streak with no goals to his name.
Alongside him in the striker department, Joshua Zirkzee failed to make an instant impact in his debut season, however seemingly still has a place at Old Trafford.
The same can’t be said for Hojlund who looks set to return to Italy with Inter Milan seemingly front-runners for his services.
However, United need to recruit a replacement, which is where Ollie Watkins comes in.
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The 29-year-old has been on top form once again with Aston Villa, grabbing 17 goals and 14 assists in 54 games as The Villains’ centre-forward.
With this exceeding Hojlund and Zirkzee’s tallies combined, Watkins would be a clear upgrade on Hojlund this summer.
Despite failing to fit with INEOS’ profile due to his age, Watkins does fit with their priority of signing proven Premier League stars, having scored 75 goals with 36 assists in 184 Premier League games across five seasons.
It’s understood that United have contacted the Villains about his availability, with his price tag now being revealed.
The Athletic has reported that Villa are holding firm on their winter valuation of the striker, standing at £60 million.
Whilst this valuation is much higher than the £30 million Liam Delap held in their pursuit of the former Ipswich man at the start of the transfer window, it’s slightly cheaper than their other targets.
Hugo Ekitike is coming in at around £85 million, with Viktor Gyokeres reportedly around a similar value.
It’s unknown if United will push forward with their interest in Watkins or if they’re just getting some options on the table, however one thing that’s sure is a new striker is needed this summer.
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