Ollie Watkins in action against Manchester United (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Manchester United have reportedly already had some talks over the possibility of signing Aston Villa striker and Arsenal transfer target Ollie Watkins.
According to the Athletic, the Red Devils discussed a potential swap deal involving Watkins and Marcus Rashford at the end of last season.
This ended up not being possible as Rashford has his heart set on a move to Barcelona, but the report states that Watkins remains on Man Utd’s radar.
The England international has also notably been linked with Arsenal on a few occasions, with Record recently stating that he was now a more likely option for the Gunners than Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres.
Ollie Watkins would be a fine signing for Man United or Arsenal
Watkins finished the 2024/25 campaign with 17 goals and 12 assists in all competitions, and it’s easy to imagine him having a positive impact at either United or Arsenal.
The 29-year-old might not be a particularly long-term addition due to his age, but he could surely do an important job for maybe two or three years.
It’s long looked like Watkins could play at an even higher level than Villa, and he’s surely better than what United and Arsenal currently have up front.
Season
Games
Goals
2020/21
40
16
2021/22
36
11
2022/23
40
16
2023/24
53
27
2024/25
54
17
Man United eyeing Watkins if Hojlund leaves
The Athletic’s report does suggest, however, that Rasmus Hojlund leaving could be key for MUFC as they target Watkins.
It’s also stated that United are currently focusing only on the signing of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, so it remains to be seen when a deal for Watkins could realistically happen.
This could perhaps allow Arsenal a chance to move ahead in the race for the Villa front-man’s signature, but for now it seems that their focus is also elsewhere.
