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Manchester United prioritizes Ollie Watkins in striker search

Ollie Watkins leads Manchester United's striker shortlist while they rule out a move for Gianluigi Donnarumma.

July 29, 2025 at 07:00 AM

Ollie Watkins heads Man Utd's two-man striker transfer shortlist as club make decision on transfer for new keeper

Manchester United targets Ollie Watkins while ruling out a move for keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Ollie Watkins leads Manchester United's striker shortlist amid transfer decisions

Ollie Watkins is at the top of Manchester United's shortlist for strikers. While the club seeks to strengthen its front line, they confirmed they will not engage in a bidding war for PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Instead, they are focusing on Watkins and Benjamin Sesko from Leipzig. Currently, United is planning to offload players like Rasmus Hojlund to fund these potential transfers. Aston Villa has vehemently stated that Watkins is not for sale, even as they previously offered him to Arsenal in January. Negotiations are expected to be complex and may extend until the summer transfer window closes next month.

Key Takeaways

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Ollie Watkins is Manchester United's primary striker target.

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The club is not pursuing Gianluigi Donnarumma amidst financial concerns.

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Selling current players like Rasmus Hojlund is essential for new signings.

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Aston Villa has firmly stated Watkins is not up for sale.

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Both Watkins and Sesko are under consideration, with negotiations expected to be tough.

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United has shifted focus from Villa's Emi Martinez to existing keeper Andre Onana.

"Ollie Watkins is Manchester United's primary striker target."

This quote reveals the focus of United's transfer strategy this summer.

"Selling current players like Rasmus Hojlund is essential for new signings."

This statement outlines the club's financial strategy regarding player sales.

"Aston Villa has firmly stated Watkins is not up for sale."

This highlights the challenges Manchester United faces in acquiring top talent.

"United will not engage in a bidding war for Donnarumma."

This reflects the club's cautious approach to player acquisitions amidst budget constraints.

This move reflects Manchester United's ongoing struggle to secure top talents while managing their budget effectively. Targeting Ollie Watkins, with his impressive Premier League track record, signals the club's intent to revamp their attack. However, their unwillingness to compete financially for Donnarumma highlights the club's need to balance ambition with fiscal restraint. By clearing space for transfers, United hopes to establish a balanced squad capable of challenging for titles.

Highlights

Watkins brings proven Premier League experience to the table.
United will not engage in a bidding war for Donnarumma.
Selling Hojlund is essential for Manchester United's transfer plans.
Negotiations for Watkins could take until the close of the summer window.

Potential budget implications for Manchester United

Manchester United's reluctance to pursue high-priced players like Gianluigi Donnarumma underscores the financial pressures the club faces. This could impact their ability to secure top talent in an increasingly competitive market.

Manchester United's transfer decisions will shape their coming season, influencing both player dynamics and performance expectations.

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manchester united gianluigi donnarumma ollie watkins transfer news aston villa football transfers sport

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