Manchester United could swap Joshua Zirkzee for Ollie Watkins this summer, according to reports.
Joshua Zirkzee was the star of the show in Manchester United’s 5-0 win over Rosenborg in pre-season.
But Zirkzee is still up for sale this summer, and reports suggest there is Premier League interest in his signature.
According to iNews, United have two striker targets of their own to replace Zirkzee if he leaves Old Trafford. One of those is Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins.
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Why Ollie Watkins is perfect ‘Plan B’ to Benjamin Sesko
United are competing in four competitions next season, so Michael Carrick needs a minimum of two strikers in his squad.
TeamTalk report that United are ready to explore a deal to bring Watkins to Manchester this summer, and the 30-year-old would be a perfect signing.
Firstly, Watkins has Premier League experience with 16 top-flight goals in each of his last two seasons with Villa. For context, Zirkzee has scored nine goals in his entire United career.
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Secondly, Watkins’ style of play is very different to Sesko’s. While Sesko relies on his athleticism, height and power to score goals, Watkins is more of a poacher with quick, agile movements in the box.
Watkins would add another string to Carrick’s bow, allowing him to change up the attacking approach if Plan A isn’t working.
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Man United wanted to sign Ollie Watkins in 2025
Interestingly, Watkins was a top target for United in 2025 before Ineos pivoted towards Sesko.
Watkins’ contract is valid until 2028, so Villa have slightly less negotiating power than they did last summer.
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It is well known that Villa have PSR problems, but their record sale of Morgan Rogers to Chelsea, and Youri Tielemans’ £35m move to United, have helped to calm their worries.
United want to recoup over £30m for Zirkzee this summer, and that should give Ineos funds to try and bring Watkins to Old Trafford.
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