Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has already pointed out who his dream club would be as Manchester United look to launch a dramatic swoop in for the 28-year-old this summer.
The Red Devils are hoping they can convince the star to jump to Old Trafford despite what has been an incredibly successful season for him at Villa Park, having netted 27 goals in all competitions this season which has been vital to helping them qualify for the Champions League.
It’s set to be a busy summer of business for the club, who are ready to entertain offers for every player in their squad save for just four first team players, with Andre Onana, Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund all on contracts that will run out in 2028.
Centre-back Raphael Varane has already announced he’ll be leaving the club when his contracts expires at the end of the season, while Antony Martial, Cristian Eriksen and Casemiro are all likely exits. Even players like club captain Bruno Fernandes’ future isn’t set in stone, as the Manchester Evening News understands his teammates aren’t directly sure about whether he’ll stay on for the new season under new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
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But now, according to talkSPORT, the British billionaire has his eyes set on helping the progression of Hojlund by signing England international Watkins, despite the challenge of his new five-year contract which he signed just last year. Whether Watkins would want to join United as they enter such a heavy rebuild phase is unclear, but what is clear is the disappointment pictured on his face after seeing Manchester City beat Tottenham 2-0 last night in a game that could decide the Premier League title race.
The result meant that Villa had secured Champions League qualification, with wild celebrations at the end-of-season awards being seen. However, Watkins was spotted slumped in his seat at the sight of his childhood team’s grasp over their first Premier League title in over 20 years slipping away.
Watkins has previously admitted his support for English top flight rivals Arsenal after scoring against them earlier this season. Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “I used to [support Arsenal]. I grew up supporting Arsenal but it’s a different story now playing against them. Not too much to say really.”
Back in 2020, Watkins expressed his dream to play for the club one day, claiming: “That’s the dream, to play for Arsenal one day, But, you know, it’s a long shot. I’m an Arsenal fan so Thierry Henry was my [idol] he’s unbelievable to watch. He was the idol growing up really.”
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