Watkins has been linked with a move to Manchester United during the summer transfer window
Ollie Watkins
Wanted man... Villa striker Ollie Watkins(Image: 2025 Getty Images)
Ollie Watkins could be the answer to Manchester United’s striker problems.
That’s the view of former Red Devils defender Paul Parker, as he gave a green light to his old club making a transfer move for the Aston Villa man this summer.
Watkins has been linked with a move to Old Trafford during the summer transfer window, with United believed to have held talks with Villa over a deal.
"I'd have to say yes,” said Parker, speaking to GOAL about a potential deal. “He's honest, he's a workaholic, and I've found it strange how players are playing in front of him at Aston Villa.
“I'm a fan of Ollie Watkins. People will talk about his age, but he's someone who is willing to run the line, someone who will try and turn bad into a good and can score goals.
“He's very strong in the air as well and he can lead the line, which is a massive plus for Man Utd because they never had that last season - a blind man would have done better."
While giving Watkins a big thumbs up, Parker also took a swipe at United striker Rasmus Hojlund, who has struggled for goals at Old Trafford.
"I think it'll be difficult to move him on,” he added.
“Man Utd go shopping big and end up with Primark stuff.
“They've spent fortunes on potential that's failed, they have to give them away cheaply or they have to hope he can watch, listen and learn and improve that way. Then all of a sudden your investment might get strong again.
“But people are going to judge him when he's deemed as failing at Man Utd. I don't think you can sell him without bringing someone else in after Watkins.”
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