Aston Villa Centre-Forward Is Open To Joining Manchester United: Good Option For Amorim? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalists Daniel Feliciano and Dean Jones stated that Aston Villa centre-forward Ollie Watkins is open to joining Manchester United this summer. It is believed that the English striker is willing to make a switch to the Mancunian club if such a move were to materialise in this transfer window.

Watkins’ Impressive Form In The Premier League

Watkins enjoyed a productive campaign at the West Midlands club after he put in a run of impressive displays as the focal point of their attack. The English talent participated in 54 matches for Aston Villa last season, scoring 17 times and earning 14 assists in all competitions.

The 29-year-old gave a good account of himself in the final third as he averaged 2.84 shots per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He kept 43.9% of his attempts on target. However, Watkins needs to work on improving his link-up play up top after making 72.4% of his attempted passes in the top tier of English football (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at Villa Park will run out in the summer of 2028. Hence, it won’t be easy for Man United to get a deal done for him on the cheap this off-season.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 25: Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Aston Villa FC at Old Trafford on May 25, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Will Watkins Be A Good Option For Manchester United?

Watkins can find a yard of space for himself to get some strikes in at goal and has proven his worth as a decent goal-getter in the Premier League. He has got the vision to create a few inviting chances for his teammates on the offensive end of the field and is a good dribbler with the ball.

The English talent is primarily a centre-forward but can also operate as a winger on either flank if told to do so. He has got a wealth of experience in the Premier League and won’t take much time to adjust to life at Man United.

Watkins would add more firepower to Ruben Amorim’s frontline. He would serve as an upgrade over Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee at the Mancunian club.

At 29, Watkins is still playing in his prime and could help the Red Devils challenge for a European spot in the Premier League next season. Therefore, he would be a decent option for Man United to consider in the short term.