Report: Man Utd eye forward additions while managing squad sales | OneFootball

Man Utd’s Striker Search: Watkins and Sesko on the Radar

Man Utd Continue Striker Hunt Amid Hojlund Uncertainty

According to a new Sky Sports News update by Dharmesh Sheth, Manchester United are actively exploring options to bolster their attack, despite being primarily focused on player sales this summer. United’s recruitment team is said to be monitoring striker targets even with Rasmus Højlund already on the books — and despite rumoured interest in the Dane from Serie A clubs.

The club is reportedly assessing potential deals for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. These names underline the club’s long-standing plan to reinforce the forward line – a problem area for a long time now.

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Watkins Interest Complicated by Villa’s Reluctance

Ollie Watkins has long been admired by United, with an approach made to Villa, per Sky Sports. However, the Midlands side “do not want to sell and he is thought to carry a value of around £60m”. Given Watkins’ consistent Premier League form and England credentials, the price tag is understandable — yet still problematic for a club managing financial fair play pressures.

Watkins, 29, scored 16 Premier League goals last season and registered 8 assists, an output that would undoubtedly elevate United’s attack. But with Villa set for Europa League football and Watkins integral to Unai Emery’s system, any transfer feels unlikely unless United table a substantial bid.

Sesko Move Tied to Familiar Face in Recruitment

While Watkins’ move appears complicated, Benjamin Sesko could be a more accessible solution. “The interest in Sesko is understood to be driven by recruitment director Christopher Vivell, who signed the striker as a 16-year-old for Red Bull Salzburg.” Vivell’s past relationship with the Slovenian international might play a crucial role in any negotiations.

Sesko, 21, is viewed as a rising star in European football. With raw pace, strength, and a clinical eye in front of goal, he aligns well with United’s long-term vision and Ruben Amorim’s preference for physically dominant, mobile forwards.

Nicolas Jackson Considered but Overpriced

Sky Sports also revealed that Nicolas Jackson had been evaluated, but “Chelsea’s valuation of the striker is understood to be considered far too high”. With Chelsea unlikely to sell to a rival cheaply, that particular avenue appears closed for now.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this report prompts mixed emotions. On one hand, it’s encouraging to see the club taking forward planning seriously — exploring targets early and leaning on the expertise of figures like Christopher Vivell. Benjamin Sesko feels like a smart, forward-thinking option, especially if United aim to build an athletic, youthful squad capable of playing high-press, transitional football under Amorim.

However, the Watkins pursuit is puzzling. While his Premier League output is elite, spending upwards of £60m on a 29-year-old when funds are tight seems misaligned with the squad’s rebuild trajectory. Many United fans will argue that such funds would be better directed toward younger players or midfield reinforcements.

There’s also a sense of frustration at the club’s continued struggle with selling players efficiently — a theme that restricts United every window. While clubs like City and Chelsea seem to manage exits with ruthless efficiency, United’s drawn-out dealings could once again hinder their incoming business.

In short, Sesko feels like the right target at the right time. Watkins? Maybe not. But what fans most want now is action — decisive, strategic and timely. The club can’t afford another late scramble in the market.