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Manchester United are keeping an eye on Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins
According to the Athletic (subscription required), Manchester United have turned their attention towards Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins for a potential move during the summer window.
The report reveals that United boss Erik ten Hag is convinced by the prospect of having Rasmus Hojlund, who is also one of the club’s targets to add a number nine this summer.
A few days ago, the Guardian revealed that the Red Devils have withdrawn their interest in Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane due to the cost involved. Ten Hag was disappointed with that development.
Watkins had an excellent season for Villa since Unai Emery took charge before the World Cup. The England international scored 15 goals and assisted six in 37 league appearances.
His overall record at Villa is pretty good as well. 43 goals and 13 assists in 116 appearances in all competitions are more than decent returns for a striker who plays for a team that doesn’t necessarily create an abundant number of chances per game.
The 27-year-old is a highly skilled number nine who can hold off defenders, has the pace to make runs in behind, is good physically and can link up play with the onrushing midfielders.
If United only have to choose between Watkins and Hojlund, there is a strong case to be made for the former. Not just the numbers, but the experience of the Premier League would help him as well.
More Manchester United News
- Bayern Munich keeper Yann Sommer relaxed about future amid Manchester United links
- Atalanta want club-record £86 million for Manchester United target Rasmus Hojlund
- Manchester United in pole position to sign Andre Onana from Inter Milan as Chelsea exit race
The other factor in the chase would be the price tag. Atalanta have made it clear that Hojlund will cost £86m, which should be deemed very high for a young player with one good season so far. Watkins’ contract at Villa Park runs until 2025 (Transfermarkt). How much will Villa demand for him? Do they even want to sell him? Let’s wait and see.
