Man United Ready to ‘Hijack’ Arsenal’s Move to Sign £50m Striker – Report | OneFootball

Manchester United Eye Ollie Watkins Move as Ruben Amorim Targets Premier League Stars

Manchester United’s summer plans are taking shape, with Caught Offside reporting that Ruben Amorim has set his sights firmly on Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, who is valued at around £50million. The Sporting Lisbon icon-turned-United manager is eager to add proven Premier League experience to his squad, marking a clear shift in transfer strategy at Old Trafford.

One source told Caught Offside: “Amorim wants to reshape the squad by focusing on players with Premier League experience. Watkins is at the heart of this vision, along with names like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. Amorim’s target is clear: Ready-made stars who will contribute immediately.”

Focus on Premier League Experience

Amorim’s desire for players who understand the demands of English football is understandable. Watkins, 29, has been central to Aston Villa’s resurgence under Unai Emery, netting 17 goals across all competitions last season. His contract runs until 2028, and Villa are understandably reluctant to part ways with their star striker.

Caught Offside notes that Arsenal have also shown interest in Watkins, having failed with a bid in January and United could now hijack that move. However, United currently view him as more of a priority. Newcastle are another club to monitor, particularly given their Champions League qualification, which could appeal to Watkins if he decides to push for a move.

Hojlund Sale Key to Unlocking Deal

The Watkins-to-United move hinges largely on the future of Rasmus Hojlund. Despite arriving with high expectations, the young Dane has endured two underwhelming seasons at Old Trafford. As Caught Offside highlights, “it is currently considered unlikely that any deal for Watkins could happen until Hojlund is sold, with the club ready to let the young Denmark international go.”

There is reported interest from Serie A, but no advanced negotiations at present. United are also open to moving on players like Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony and Alejandro Garnacho, as part of Amorim’s wider squad overhaul.

Villa’s Reluctance and Newcastle’s Watchful Eye

One of the main hurdles remains Villa’s stance. Emery is reportedly determined to keep Watkins, recognising his importance to their attack. Yet, football’s transfer market is rarely straightforward, and with Newcastle lurking, there may still be twists ahead.

It’s also worth noting the potential domino effect. Should Arsenal fail to land their other striker targets, they might revive their interest in Watkins, complicating matters for United further.

As it stands, Amorim’s vision for a revitalised Manchester United depends not only on ambition but on navigating tricky financial and competitive waters.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this news is electric. Ruben Amorim clearly means business. After two seasons of watching Hojlund struggle to adapt, the idea of replacing him with a proven Premier League striker like Ollie Watkins is a breath of fresh air. Watkins has pace, strength, and composure in front of goal, and most importantly, he understands the rigours of English football.

Fans are excited by the idea that Amorim is targeting not just potential but players who can deliver now. Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo also fit that bill, but Watkins feels like the jewel in the crown. Imagine him linking up with Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo, feeding off chances and pressing from the front.

There’s understandable concern about the need to sell before buying, but many supporters feel it’s time for tough decisions. If Hojlund has not worked out, cashing in and reinvesting in a striker who can fire United back into the top four is smart business. There’s also hope that Amorim can unlock the best in Rashford or Garnacho if they stay.

Overall, this report has energised the fanbase. United need to act decisively, and Amorim seems ready to do just that. Watkins would signal the start of a new, ambitious era at Old Trafford.