Manchester United willing to sign Ollie Watkins to replace Rasmus Hojlund | OneFootball

Manchester United are reportedly keeping an eye on Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins.

United have had little luck in their attempts to revamp Ruben Amorim’s squad. With buying clubs aware of the Mancunian’s financial predicament and their need to get rid of high-earning stars, the Red Devils have struggled to attract reasonable proposals.

Rasmus Hojlund was one of United’s most frustrating players during the 2024/25 campaign. Signed from Atalanta in the summer of 2023, the £72m striker has looked devoid of any confidence and composure in Red colours.

The 22-year-old is certainly not ready to lead Amorim’s attacking line. Still, clubs in Serie A still admire his potential and are prepared to take a chance on him. The catch, however, is that they are not willing to meet United’s financial demands.

Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Inter Milan are interested in signing Hojlund but only on loan. Amid this, a report suggests that the Dane’s departure could open doors for the arrival of a prolific number nine.

According to The Athletic, Watkins is on United’s list of “potential centre-forward recruits in the event that Rasmus Hojlund leaves the club.”

It is understood that there has been contact between the two clubs via intermediaries to “explore the prospect of a deal.”

The outlet adds: “Conversations between United and Aston Villa concerning Marcus Rashford at the end of last season included the prospect of Watkins being involved in any possible summer transfer. The clubs held discussions despite there being a £40million option for Villa to buy Rashford.”

However, Rashford’s desire to join Barcelona scuppered any possibility of a deal involving the United academy graduate and the Villa forward.

The 29-year-old Englishman is considered one of the most complete strikers in the Premier League, owing to his exceptional movement, hold-up play, and predatory instincts in front of the goal.

Watkins was directly involved in 17 goals and 14 assists across all competitions last season.

Having said that, the report underlines that Watkins is not the only striker United are monitoring. Further, they are currently fully focused on securing the services of Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo.

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