A midfield rebuild has been the main priority for Manchester United but signing a new striker is under consideration.
Benjamin Sesko impressed during his debut season, especially after Michael Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January. The Slovenian shared most of the team's goals with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.
Carrick turned to Joshua Zirkzee in the last three games of the season due to Sesko sustaining a shin injury. The Dutch attacker failed to impress and speculation is growing over a potential summer exit.
Zirkzee has been linked with a move to Serie A giants Juventus while AS Roma have also shown interest. If he moves on, it looks as though INEOS have decided on a replacement.
Man Utd Monitoring Ollie Watkins
Ollie Watkins Calls Arne Slot's Liverpool 'Disjointed' After Aston Villa Win
Ollie Watkins Calls Arne Slot's Liverpool 'Disjointed' After Aston Villa Win
Should Zirkzee move on, signing a new centre-forward becomes somewhat of a necessity and the club could reignite their interest in Ollie Watkins. The Aston Villa striker had been on the Red Devils' radar before they decided to sign Sesko as their new number nine.
According to SunSport, United are monitoring Watkins' situation at Villa and if Zirkzee leaves, they will make an "official approach" for the English frontman. Arsenal are also keeping tabs after Fernerbahce planned to make a £30 million bid.
The Turkish giants decided against submitting the offer after Villa made it clear that they wouldn't accept it. The Villans are thought to be willing to consider offers of around £40 million for the player.
Watkins, described as "exceptional" has two years left on his contract at Villa Park and has been one of the Premier League's most consistent finishers over the years. Last season, the 30-year-old scored 16 goals in 37 league games despite enduring a rough patch.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
Watkins is a Must-Have For Man Utd
Ollie Watkins scored against Liverpool
Ollie Watkins scored against Liverpool
If United want to challenge for major honours, Watkins is the type of signing that helps them do so. An experienced striker who has been superb during his time at Villa and is probably the second-best English striker behind Harry Kane.
Sesko is obviously Carrick's main frontman but adding Watkins to his squad gives him another option who is reliable. That's not been the case with Zirkzee who managed just two goals in 24 league games last season.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick applauds the supporters Related
Ben Jacobs: Man Utd Hold Talks to Sign 'Incredible' Ex-Premier League Midfielder
The Red Devils could swoop for a Brazilian.
The price might be an issue given the club are looking to sign a third midfielder and potentially a new left-back. But you know what you're getting from him and that's goals along with an extensive understanding of the English game.