Manchester United remain interested in Aston Villa star; deal difficult – Journo

“Ollie Watkins, as reported by our colleague Laurie Whitwell, is among those on Manchester United’s recruitment list. I’d be surprised if he wasn’t on the recruitment list of top clubs.

“He’s such a good striker and a good lad, and they’ve maybe held some enquiries with his camp. I’m not sure if that’s gone to Villa directly.

“From my conversations with Villa, they see themselves as having no intention to part with Ollie Watkins. They want him to continue with him up front for them.”

Now, can the Red Devils convince Aston Villa to let their star striker go? It seems difficult. Watkins is key to Unai Emery and to a team that aspires to consolidate their position among the best. However, in football, few things are ever completely certain. If United put a high enough figure on the table and the player shows willingness, no one can rule anything out. Watkins, for his part, would bring something that Amorim needs, and that is mobility, a nose for goal and constant work without the ball.

His style would fit well in a two-striker system or as a lone striker, knowing that Amorim prioritises high pressing and directness. Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo ( if he comes as United are pushing for him) would provide width and pace on the wings, leaving Watkins as a pure finisher. The challenge, of course, is that a signing like this does not come cheap.

Villa are in no hurry to sell, and United cannot afford mistakes like in previous transfer windows. Our opinion is that Amorim, if he really wants Watkins, will have to persevere until the end and trust in the club’s ability to seduce him with a solid project. Watkins would be an important profile, but without a clear system and collective commitment, his impact could be diluted. This summer will test United’s real ambition.