Ollie Watkins’ wage revealed as Man United eye £60m move without breaking salary structure

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has openly discussed the club’s need to regain control of their financial situation, particularly on the wage side.

United are still trying to move on from the overpaid contracts handed out under the previous ownership, and Ineos are determined not to repeat those mistakes.

Watkins currently earns £130,000 per week at Villa, according to Goal, giving him an annual salary of just under £7m – a figure well within United’s ability to improve without disrupting their wage hierarchy.

It’s likely Watkins would request a pay rise if he made the switch, but United could accommodate that without making him one of their top earners.

Man United have a plan to offer pay rises without breaking the bank

Meanwhile, United’s summer recruitment under Ruben Amorim has focused on proven Premier League talent.

Matheus Cunha joined early in the window from Wolves, signing a five-year deal worth £200,000 per week – a significant jump from his previous wages but still within reasonable bounds for the club.

United are also moving forward with a deal for Bryan Mbeumo, who is expected to land a similar wage if the transfer from Brentford goes through. The club is preparing a third bid after their £62.5m offer was rejected.

Ineos are working to free up around £800,000 per week in wages by moving on from Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford and Antony – clearing space for marquee arrivals without breaking the bank.