Ollie Watkins Becomes Manchester United’s Priority Striker
As the summer transfer window continues to heat up, **Manchester United** has identified **Aston Villa** striker **Ollie Watkins** as a priority target in their quest for a reliable goal scorer. This move comes after a less-than-stellar season for United, where they finished a dismal 15th in the Premier League, scoring only 44 goals in 38 matches under new manager Ruben Amorim[1]. The Red Devils’ initial interest in **Viktor Gyökeres** from **Sporting CP** has been complicated by high valuation and interest from other clubs, including **Arsenal**[1].
## Background and Performance
**Ollie Watkins** has been a standout performer for Aston Villa, emerging as their top Premier League scorer and surpassing **Gabby Agbonlahor**. Despite not having his most explosive season last year, Watkins still managed to score **17 goals** and provide **14 assists**, demonstrating his consistent contribution to Villa’s attacking output. This form has been crucial for Aston Villa, making him an attractive option for Manchester United as they seek to bolster their attack[3].
## Transfer Details
Manchester United has reportedly made a fresh move for Watkins, including private swap talks involving **Marcus Rashford**. Aston Villa, however, has set a valuation of around **£60 million** for the striker, which United is currently unwilling to meet. This valuation has become a sticking point in negotiations, as United previously bid significantly lower. The scenario highlights the challenges United faces in securing top targets due to financial constraints and the competitive nature of the transfer market[1][3].
## Potential Swap Deal Involving Marcus Rashford
The private talks between Manchester United and Aston Villa over a potential swap deal involving **Marcus Rashford** indicate a strategic approach by United to offload players while strengthening their squad. Rashford, who has been linked to a move away from Old Trafford, could be a key component in negotiations, potentially reducing the financial burden on United if they can secure Watkins in a swap[1].
## Manchester United’s Needs
Manchester United’s poor goal-scoring form last season underscored the need for a dependable striker. The club’s reliance on inconsistent forwards has been a significant issue, with players like **Rasmus Hojlund** and **Joshua Zirkzee** failing to deliver consistent goals. The arrival of a proven Premier League striker like **Ollie Watkins** would be crucial in supporting Ruben Amorim’s plans to improve the team’s attacking prowess[1].
## Aston Villa’s Position
Aston Villa’s valuation of **£60 million** for Watkins is a reflection of his importance to the team. As their top scorer, Watkins’ form has been crucial for Villa’s relatively stable attacking output. The club’s demand for a high price indicates their reluctance to let go of a key player, especially one who has been integral to their success in recent seasons[3].
## Conclusion
The pursuit of **Ollie Watkins** by Manchester United highlights the club’s determination to strengthen their attack and address the goal-scoring woes that plagued them last season. While negotiations are ongoing, with Aston Villa’s high valuation proving a challenge, the potential for a significant transfer remains. The inclusion of **Marcus Rashford** in swap talks adds complexity to the negotiations, but it also underscores United’s strategic approach to securing top talent while managing their squad dynamics[1][3].
## Sources:
– Football365: [Manchester United make fresh move for Ollie Watkins](https://www.football365.com/news/man-utd-fresh-approach-watkins-aston-villa-secret-talks-rashford-swap)
– The Standard: [Man Utd learn Watkins price after transfer talks](https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/ollie-watkins-transfer-latest-man-utd-ps60m-b1236121.html)
– Football Insider 247: [Ollie Watkins to Man United: ‘This is his big move, it’s a deal that’ll go through’](https://www.footballinsider247.com/ollie-watkins-to-man-united-this-is-his-big-move-its-a-deal-thatll-go-through/)
What is the current valuation of Ollie Watkins by Aston Villa?
Aston Villa has set a valuation of around £60 million for Ollie Watkins.
Why is Manchester United interested in Ollie Watkins?
Manchester United is interested in Ollie Watkins because they need a reliable and proven Premier League striker to improve their goal-scoring form, which was among the lowest in the league last season.
What other clubs are interested in Viktor Gyökeres?
Viktor Gyökeres is also of interest to Arsenal and other top clubs, which complicates Manchester United’s pursuit due to high valuation and competition.
Is a swap deal involving Marcus Rashford a possibility?
Yes, Manchester United has held private talks with Aston Villa over a potential swap deal involving Marcus Rashford. However, the details of such a deal are still under negotiation.
What impact could Ollie Watkins have on Manchester United’s attack?
Ollie Watkins could significantly improve Manchester United’s attack by providing a consistent goal-scoring threat, which has been lacking for the team. His experience and form in the Premier League make him an attractive option for bolstering United’s front line.
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