Manchester United Target Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins as Key Striker
Manchester United's desperate search for a prolific striker has led to suggestions that they should consider Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins. Former midfielder Paul Ince believes Watkins would be an ideal signing for United, citing his experience, goal-scoring ability, and speed. Watkins, who scored 16 Premier League goals last season, has been on the radar of top clubs, but United have yet to make a move.
Key Takeaways:
- Paul Ince thinks Ollie Watkins, Aston Villa's striker, would be an ideal signing for Manchester United due to his experience, goal-scoring ability, and speed.
- Watkins has scored 16 Premier League goals last season and 50 Premier League goals since the start of the 2022/23 season.
- Manchester United have been exploring alternative avenues after missing out on Liam Delap to Chelsea and are currently linked with Sporting Lisbon's Viktor Gyokeres and Napoli's Victor Osimhen.
- Ince believes Viktor Gyokeres has done well in Portugal, but would also consider Victor Osimhen, who have both been linked with United.
- Former United player Rasmus Hojlund, who has struggled to deliver the goods, might benefit from leaving on loan to gain confidence and scoring experience.
- Watkins' proven track record and attributes make him a suitable candidate to take the pressure off Hojlund, allowing him to come in and take over as the number 9 striker.
Statistics:
- Watkins has scored 50 Premier League goals since the start of the 2022/23 season.
- Watkins scored 16 Premier League goals last season.
- Ollie Watkins, 29, joined Aston Villa from Brentford in 2020.
- Rasmus Hojlund, Manchester United's striker, arrived at Old Trafford at the age of 20.
- United are currently exploring alternative internal funding avenues due to restrictions on their transfer budget, making Watkins' feasibility more uncertain.
Sources:
- M.E.N.