🚨 Ollie Watkins was keen to swap Aston Villa for Manchester United this summer.
In a surprising twist to this summer’s transfer narrative, sources close to the situation have revealed that Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins was open to making a high-profile switch to Manchester United. The England international, fresh off a career-best season under Unai Emery, had reportedly expressed interest in joining the Red Devils if a concrete offer was made.
Watkins, 29, was seen as a potential alternative or complementary option to United’s pursuit of Benjamin Šeško, with his proven Premier League experience and goal-scoring consistency catching the eye of the recruitment team at Old Trafford. With 19 Premier League goals last season and a key role in helping Villa secure Champions League qualification, Watkins has firmly established himself as one of the most reliable strikers in England.
According to insiders, informal discussions took place between intermediaries earlier this summer, and while no official bid was made, Watkins was intrigued by the opportunity to compete at one of the biggest clubs in world football. The idea of leading the line at Old Trafford, under the lights of European competition, appealed to the striker’s ambitions.
However, Aston Villa were never open to selling unless presented with a massive offer, especially after Watkins signed a long-term contract extension in October 2023. Villa’s hierarchy value him as a cornerstone of their project, and with Champions League football on offer at Villa Park, they were under no pressure to sell.
Ultimately, Manchester United turned their attention to younger options like Šeško, while Watkins remained committed to Villa’s ambitious plans under Emery. Still, the player’s openness to the move offers an intriguing glimpse into United’s striking options this window — and what might have been.
Watch this space as the transfer window continues to throw up surprises. ⏳🔥
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