Manchester United might make the move for Ollie Watkins if they manage to sell Rasmus Hojlund
Manchester United have a lot of doubts as they plan their forward line for next season. The club know they need goals, spark and character in that area. Their squad does not always show the sharpness that the Premier League demands, and the pressure to compete for everything again is pressing Old Trafford.
Among the fans there is a growing expectation for a proven name to lift the crowd every weekend. Despite the illusion brought by Rasmus Hojlund, the economic reality limits movements and demands delicate decisions. Every step influences the roadmap to avoid sanctions for breaching financial rules.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke revealed on Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast that the arrival of Ollie Watkins depends on Hojlund’s future. The club are weighing up the option of bolstering their forward line with a proven league striker. Watkins would fit in because of his mobility, nose for goal and maturity. However, the signing is not an easy one because United are battling against their tight margin with PSR. According to O’Rourke, without a major departure, such as Hojlund, it would be impossible to balance the numbers. Aston Villa will not give away their striker, and Old Trafford know they need to sell before they buy.
How would Ollie Watkins’ potential transfer impact Manchester United’s attacking strategy?
“If Man United are looking at a good centre-forward to come in and improve their squad, Ollie Watkins would tick a lot of boxes. Rasmus Hojlund… a lot will depend on what happens with him, because United probably can’t afford to go out and buy Watkins on top of Mbuemo and Cunha. They will probably need to offload a couple of players to allow them the sort of wriggle room they’ll need, with FFP and PSR, to afford a deal for Watkins. I can see them moving for Watkins once they accept a Hojlund bid.”
Opinion:
For us, United must think carefully before sacrificing Hojlund. The Dane still has potential. Throwing in the towel so soon would be a mistake that could take its toll in the long term. Watkins offers guarantees that go without saying. The 29-year-old’s pace, tireless work rate and ability to drop into the wide areas would be a great fit with Bruno Fernandes and Mathes Cunha. However, his arrival does not guarantee that the club will solve their playmaking problems. Selling a young player with room to grow just to make ends meet is dangerous. We understand PSR limiting moves, but the club need coherent planning, not stopgaps.
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If the Englishman lands, he will add experience and versatility. He can lead the high pressing and put pressure on the opposition centre-backs. Still, he is not a pure killer. Watkins is at his best with space and constant support. If Ruben Amorim does not tweak the system, Watkins is likely to be isolated like Hojlund sometimes was.
Moreover, the fans could lose patience if they see a promising young player leaving without establishing himself. Is it worth taking that risk? Hard to say. Manchester United have the potential to get back to their best, but they must show that they learn from their mistakes. Can they close the deal? With sales, yes. Without sales, we doubt it. The key is not to repeat planning mistakes that will cost them dearly in the league table.