Manchester United are monitoring Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as a potential Joshua Zirkzee replacement, with Villa understood to be holding out for a £40 million fee, according to SunSport.
The report links the two situations directly: United would only pursue Watkins formally if Zirkzee were moved on from Old Trafford this summer, with any Zirkzee exit expected to take the form of a loan rather than a permanent sale.
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Zirkzee’s position under Carrick
Zirkzee arrived at United in the summer of 2024 from Bologna for £36.5 million, signed under Erik ten Hag after a standout Serie A season in which he helped the Italian side reach the Champions League. The premise was a technically gifted forward capable of contributing beyond the penalty area – not necessarily a prolific finisher, but an intelligent creator who could unlock space for teammates.
That profile has become the problem. With Benjamin Šeško leading the line and Bryan Mbeumo capable of deputising centrally, making it harder to establish himself as a regular starter under Michael Carrick. He managed just two goals in 24 Premier League games last season before injury ended his campaign early and disrupted his pre-season preparations. He did show well in pre-season against Rosenborg, .
INEOS have blocked a permanent sale, which explains why loan interest from Juventus and AS Roma has been the most credible exit route. .
Why Watkins fits the brief
Watkins offers something Zirkzee does not: a proven Premier League goal record. The 30-year-old has scored 91 goals in 221 Premier League games and brings Champions League experience – one goal and four assists across 12 European games – that would matter as United aim to compete on multiple fronts next season.
The Reds are not alone in their interest. Arsenal have also been linked with Watkins, and Fenerbahce reportedly considered a £30 million approach before pulling back short of Villa’s asking price. with interest from across Europe before United secured his services in a £36.5 million deal. so the logic of the Watkins interest holds – but the sequencing matters. A £40 million outlay is a significant commitment, particularly with midfield and full-back reinforcements also being pursued.
| Player | PL Goals | PL Apps | Reported Fee |
| Ollie Watkins | 91 | 221 | £40m (Villa ask) |
| Joshua Zirkzee | 2 (last season) | 24 (last season) | £36.5m (paid) |
Whether United move formally depends on Zirkzee’s situation resolving first – and with INEOS blocking a permanent exit, that could take time the window does not have in abundance.