Manchester United’s transfer business this summer is expected to accelerate this month, with a new striker still desired by Ineos.
After moving swiftly in the opening weeks of the market to strengthen, the past month has ultimately been frustrating.
Matheus Cunha signed on the 1st of June, which many assumed had set the tone for the rest of the summer. Cunha was United’s quickest signing in years, yet following this, talks for Bryan Mbeumo have dragged on.
After the first bid was rejected, United negotiated for weeks before sending in a second bid worth £63m in total, which Brentford also refused.
That being said, Mbeumo is dreaming of his United move, and all indications remain that a deal can be done. But now, United have been linked with turning attention to another position.
Ollie Watkins in black Aston Villa kit facing Manchester United.
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Aston Villa stance on selling Ollie Watkins to Manchester United
On Monday night, it emerged that United were eyeing a move for Ollie Watkins, with the Aston Villa striker seen as a potential replacement for Rasmus Hojlund.
Watkins would be an interesting addition, however, it would take a lot of work to sign him. Now, United in Focus have spoken with transfer expert Graeme Bailey to delve into whether a deal is possible or not.
United in Focus understands that the club are well aware of Watkins, but this is the case with several strikers. We can confirm that Watkins’ camp are assessing options with contact made with both United and Arsenal.
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Bailey told United in Focus: “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. 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 with a lot of Premier League experience, however at 29, he wouldn’t be for the future which suggests a trust in Chido Obi.
Ollie Watkins’ record for Aston Villa
While Watkins would not arrive with the same glamour as Viktor Gyokeres or Victor Osimhen, if signed he would be an effective number nine for the club.
Over the past two seasons, Watkins really came into his own for Villa, as his stats presented by Sofascore showcase.
Infographic showing Ollie Watkins' stats between 2023-24 and present.
Infographic made by SofaScore showing Ollie Watkins’ stats between 2023-24 and present.
Watkins’ 44 goals in two seasons show he will bring a promise of goals to the club, with Premier League proven also to be an important quality that Ineos have focussed on this summer.
Signing Watkins would be in line with Mbeumo and Cunha, players who can cope with the league and therefore are safer bets than a player from abroad.
Combined, the trio would be incredibly dangerous for opposition defences and is definitely an upgrade on current options.