Man United Target Ollie Watkins as Top Striker

Manchester United have made Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins their top transfer priority as they seek a proven Premier League No.9 before the season begins. Despite Villa's public stance that Watkins is not for sale, United hope to negotiate his price down from £60 million to £40–45 million, possibly including winger Alejandro Garnacho in a swap deal. Watkins, who scored 16 goals and made eight assists last season, is reportedly open to the move, though he has previously expressed a desire to play for Arsenal. United are also considering RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko but face higher competition and prices for alternatives. The club is under pressure to offload players like Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Antony to comply with profit and sustainability rules, but valuation gaps with other clubs complicate such deals. Club legends Roy Keane and Rio Ferdinand have publicly endorsed Watkins as an ideal signing for United.