Romano confirms Aston Villa ‘call’ for Man Utd star as Al-Hilal continue bidding for Watkins | OneFootball

Aston Villa have made a “call” to Man Utd to discuss a potential deal for Joshua Zirkzee with Al-Hilal attempting to sign Ollie Watkins, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Netherlands international joined the Red Devils when compatriot Erik ten Hag was still at Old Trafford and Zirkzee has failed to become a regular starter in the Man Utd XI.

There was plenty of speculation over the last two transfer windows that Zirkzee could depart with multiple clubs in Italy interested in his services.

Aston Villa are the latest club to show an interest in signing Zirkzee this summer with rumours that Man Utd will look to dip into the striker market if the Dutchman leaves.

The Villans’ striker Watkins has attracted several bids from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal this summer and Italian transfer insider Romano has revealed that Aston Villa have now called about Zirkzee’s availability.

Romano said on his YouTube channel: “Manchester United are not done, because Manchester United are looking for a left-back, and then let’s see what’s going to happen in the next days for the Joshua Zirkzee situation.

“Italian clubs are calling. I’m told there was a call, just a call at the moment, no bid, no negotiation, but just a call also from Aston Villa.

“Why Aston Villa? Because Al-Hilal are expected to return to the table for Ollie Watkins. Ollie Watkins is the top target for Al-Hilal.

“I told you about an official bid a few days ago. Al-Hilal are returning for Ollie Watkins. So the negotiation for Ollie Watkins is still ongoing.

“Aston Villa are trying their best to keep the player, to sign a new contract, to keep him at the club. Unai Emery loves him. But now the situation is getting complicated for Villa because Al-Hilal are not giving up, because Al-Hilal consider Ollie Watkins as a top priority.

“And so for Aston Villa, the number one target in the striker position is Nicolas Jackson.

“Aston Villa are going for Jackson. That’s something I’ve been telling you for a long time and I maintain that information. They want Jackson.

“They are trying to understand if financially they can pay what Chelsea want. So Villa are going for Jackson.

“But Joshua Zirkzee is one of the names they considered internally and there was a call to understand the conditions of the deal and possibilities.

“So at the moment, let’s call it just a contact, not an official negotiation.

“But in case Zirkzee leaves Manchester United before the end of the window, let’s see if it’s going to be Italy, England or whatever. In that case, we have to keep a close eye on a new striker for Manchester United.

“But at the moment, it’s still not guaranteed. So what’s guaranteed is Baleba done, and I expect movement at the left-back position.”