Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins is reportedly open to a move to Manchester United if the Red Devils cannot secure Benjamin Sesko, who is currently being pursued heavily by Newcastle United. Manager Ruben Amorim has a couple of other striker options in mind as well.
Following their successful acquisitions of Diego Leon, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha earlier this summer, Manchester United is now searching for a top striker to spearhead their attack. They are now concentrating only on completing a deal for Sesko after having already lost out on targets Liam Delap and Viktor Gyokeres, who joined Chelsea and Arsenal, respectively.
According to TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, Manchester United has submitted a bid to RB Leipzig for Sesko that could reach €85 million (£74 million, $98.3 million) with easily attainable add-ons. Sources suggest that Sesko is pleased with the contract offer from United, despite Newcastle making a strong push to convince the 22-year-old striker to choose St. James’ Park.
Meanwhile, with Liverpool expressing interest in Alexander Isak, despite a recent rejected bid, Newcastle view Sesko as a prime alternative. Fletcher reports that Newcastle’s offer for Sesko might escalate to €90 million (£78.3 million, $101.1 million), and the striker is also satisfied with the salary package that the Carabao Cup winners have put on the table.
According to The Sun, due to the uncertainty surrounding Sesko’s future, Watkins is “ready” to join Manchester United should they miss out on the striker to Newcastle. The report highlights that Watkins is eager for a transfer to Manchester United and believes it’s the right moment for him to depart from Villa.
Unai Emery’s club may think about selling the 29-year-old England international if an offer between £40 million and £50 million (up to €57.5 million, $66.5 million) is received, considering Aston Villa’s persistent financial difficulties. Dean Jones, a transfer insider for TEAMtalk, has stated that Villa expects it to be difficult to hold onto Watkins.
If either Manchester United or Newcastle are unable to sign Sesko, it is thought that they will target Watkins, who finished the previous season with 16 goals and 8 assists in 31 Premier League appearances.
