Rasmus Hojlund. (REUTERS/Scott Heppell)
Manchester United are preparing for a full-scale overhaul this summer after a nightmare 2024/25 campaign that saw them slump to a record-low 15th in the Premier League and fall short in the Europa League final against Tottenham, ending the season empty-handed and in disarray.
While a new goalkeeper and midfield reinforcements are firmly on the to-do list, the club’s biggest concern lies up front.
Joshua Zirkzee failed to make an impact after arriving from Bologna, and despite flashes of brilliance, Alejandro Garnacho is expected to leave. Rasmus Højlund, United’s £72 million investment who managed just four league goals, is also reportedly on the way out – potentially on loan – with Napoli and Inter Milan expressing interest.
With Højlund currently the only out-and-out No. 9 in the squad, United have identified a key target to fill the void: Ollie Watkins.
United Eyeing Watkins as New No. 9
According to The Athletic, United have made initial contact with Aston Villa through intermediaries to explore a potential deal for Watkins, who is viewed as one of the most reliable goal-scorers in English football.
While Villa would prefer to keep the 29-year-old, they could consider a sale to help address their Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) obligations, despite agreeing to sell their women’s team to ease financial pressure.
Watkins, who still has three years left on his contract, was previously valued at £60 million when Arsenal showed interest in January. The Gunners balked at the price, reportedly valuing him closer to £40 million.
Whether United are willing to meet Villa’s valuation remains to be seen, particularly given Watkins’ age and limited resale value. Still, his consistent Premier League output makes him an appealing option.
Watkins has scored 75 goals in 184 top-flight games for Villa, reaching double digits in each of the last five seasons.
Former United defender Phil Jones is among those who admire Watkins, saying last year: “He is a terrific player – he has shown that for club and country now.
“What I like about him is that he can come short and offer that dynamic, but he can also go in behind,” he explained. “He is a real handful and he is quite comfortable playing on the shoulder of the defender.”
Whether United pull the trigger will depend on budget, competition, and how quickly they move to offload Højlund – but Watkins is firmly on the radar.
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