Manchester United seeks to bolster its attack: Watkins and Sesko in the crosshairs
Manchester United has set its sights on Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko as the main targets to reinforce its attack, according to sources close to the club. The search for a new striker intensifies at Old Trafford after the signing of Liam Delap was not finalized, who chose to join Chelsea.
After the arrival of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, United is accelerating efforts to incorporate a new “9” into their squad. Watkins and Sesko are emerging as the most viable options in the market, following the signings of Hugo Ekitike to Liverpool and Viktor Gyökeres to Arsenal.
Sources indicate that there are concerns at United regarding the potential cost of transfers, especially considering the valuations of Aston Villa and RB Leipzig, respectively.Ollie Watkins is a transfer target for Manchester United.
However, contacts have been established with the representatives of both players to assess the possible financial implications. A decision has not yet been made on whether to prioritize Watkins or Sesko.
A factor to consider in Sesko’s signing is the interest of Newcastle United. United has considered the 22-year-old Slovenian international in the event that Alexander Isak prefers to join Liverpool.
According to sources, United are confident that Sesko would choose the club over Newcastle, despite the latter’s qualification for the Champions League, if they advance in negotiations with RB Leipzig.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa insists they will not let Watkins go. However, United believe that a suitable offer could tempt Villa to release the 29-year-old player, who was the subject of an offer from Arsenal in January.
It is unlikely that United will match the £60 million (£80 million) offer presented by Arsenal six months ago, and instead values the English player at around £45 million.
The club’s directors hope to increase their flexibility in the market by obtaining revenue from the sales of Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia.
Marcus Rashford’s transfer to Barcelona has already generated some financial leeway.
United’s firm interest in signing another striker raises questions about Rasmus Højlund’s future.
The Danish international’s preference is to stay, but his opportunities could be limited if another player arrives to compete for a position in his position.
Napoli and Juventus are some of the clubs that have requested to be informed about Hojlund’s situation.
The 22-year-old player only managed four goals in the Premier League last season, his second at United after arriving on an initial £64 million deal from Atalanta in 2023.
