Photo by Mark Cosgrove/News Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Photo by Mark Cosgrove/News Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Joshua Zirkzee should be replaced by a Premier League-proven star if he leaves Manchester United this summer.
The latest reports suggest Juventus are pushing to sign Joshua Zirkzee this summer, with Manchester United open to a loan move for the Dutch striker.
If Joshua Zirkzee leaves, United’s striker department suddenly looks depleted with Benjamin Sesko the only out-and-out centre-forward left in the squad.
Selling Zirkzee is smart business, but only if United find a suitable replacement. In my opinion, that should be Ollie Watkins.
Manchester City v Aston Villa - Premier League
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Ollie Watkins Dusan Vlahovic
Ollie Watkins Dusan Vlahovic
Man United should push to sign Ollie Watkins
Last summer, Watkins was a top target for United before Ineos pivoted and signed Sesko instead.
United have explored a Watkins deal again this summer, with iNews reporting that the Aston Villa forward will cost upwards of £40 million.
There are whispers that United’s midfield rebuild is done and a third signing may not be made this summer. If that is the case, funds should be put towards signing a new striker.
In 2025/26, Watkins scored 16 Premier League goals, ranking him fourth in the Golden Boot race. In all competitions, he scored 21 goals.
Watkins has scored 15 goals or more in each of his last four Premier League campaigns. At 30 years old, he is now the perfect option to support Sesko in the striker department.
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Ollie Watkins was open to Man United move
Last summer, Watkins was keen to join United once he heard of the transfer interest.
Watkins has a contract with Villa until 2028 and is earning around £130,000 per week in wages.
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The England striker is yet to join up with the Villa squad this summer following his participation in the 2026 World Cup.
Villa may make a sale difficult with a Champions League campaign to look forward to next season, but this may be Watkins’ last opportunity at a move to Old Trafford.