United have made initial contact via intermediaries about a potential swoop for Ollie Watkins this summer
Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins is known to be on Manchester United's transfer shortlist
Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins is known to be on Manchester United's transfer shortlist
Manchester United already have a club-known transfer view on summer target Ollie Watkins.
Watkins, 29, is known to be well-liked by United, and The Athletic reported last month that a move for the Aston Villa forward would be entirely dependent on Rasmus Hojlund's future.
Hojlund, who scored just four times in the Premier League last season, is rumoured to be wanted by Inter Milan, with his future under Ruben Amorim still unknown.
The Villans are happy to listen to offers for valuable members of their side, with Emi Martinez another player who has been heavily linked with a switch to Old Trafford this window.
Although only a 'check-call' has been reported between United and Watkins, his Premier League-proven qualities would fit the calibre of player Amorim wants to bring to the club.
Matheus Cunha, who signed from Wolves, and Bryan Mbeumo are two other names who also slot into the category as United continue to try and reshape their squad in time for next season.
But Watkins, who scored 17 goals and registered 14 assists for Unai Emery's side last season, is valued at around £60m by his current club, a fee which may deter INEOS and Jason Wilcox.
Phil Jones, who now works as a coach with United's Under-18 side, has already told his employers exactly what they want to hear regarding the former Brentford man.
Speaking as a pundit on the BBC last year, Jones offered a glowing report on a man who is known for finding the back of the net on a regular basis.
“He is a terrific player – he has shown that for club and country now,” he told the BBC.
“What I like about him is that he can come short and offer that dynamic, but he can also go in behind. He is a real handful and he is quite comfortable playing on the shoulder of the defender.”