### Manchester United's Pursuit of Ollie Watkins: A Shift in Transfer Strategy - Manchester United is actively exploring options to strengthen their attacking lineup as they face challenges in securing their primary target, Viktor Gyökeres, who has reportedly agreed to join Arsenal. Consequently, United has turned their attention to Aston Villa's striker, Ollie Watkins, as a viable alternative. Recent discussions have taken place between the two clubs regarding a potential transfer, with Aston Villa reportedly valuing Watkins at around £60 million for the current transfer window [https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45653864/transfer-rumors-news-man-united-eye-watkins-gyokeres-alternative, https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/rumor-manchester-united-learn-astonvilla-s-asking-price-ollie-watkins-amid-recent-transfer-links-reports]. ### Breakdown of Manchester United's Transfer Strategy 1. **Current Situation**: - Manchester United has accepted defeat in their pursuit of Gyökeres, prompting a shift in focus to Watkins [https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/ollie-watkins-man-united-reality-31979510]. 2. **Interest in Ollie Watkins**: - United has approached Aston Villa to discuss a potential deal for Watkins, who has emerged as a key target for bolstering their attack ahead of the new season [https://www.nationalworld.com/sport/football/manchester-united-exploring-options-deal-ollie-watkins-amid-interest-arsenal-5204774]. 3. **Financial Considerations**: - Aston Villa's asking price for Watkins is reported to be around £60 million, which United must consider as they navigate their transfer budget [https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/rumor-manchester-united-learn-astonvilla-s-asking-price-ollie-watkins-amid-recent-transfer-links-reports]. 4. **Potential Impact of Rasmus Hojlund's Departure**: - If Rasmus Hojlund leaves the club, Watkins is seen as a potential replacement, further emphasizing the urgency of United's interest in the striker [https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/rumor-manchester-united-plot-move-pl-striker-rasmus-hojlund-replacement-reports]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Transfer Value**: Aston Villa's asking price for Ollie Watkins is set at approximately **£60 million** [https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/rumor-manchester-united-learn-astonvilla-s-asking-price-ollie-watkins-amid-recent-transfer-links-reports]. - **Recent Developments**: - Manchester United's shift in focus from Gyökeres to Watkins indicates a strategic pivot in their transfer approach as they aim to secure a top striker before the season begins [https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/ollie-watkins-man-united-reality-31979510]. ### Conclusion: Manchester United's Transfer Strategy in Focus 1. **Strategic Shift**: Manchester United is pivoting from their initial target, Gyökeres, to focus on Ollie Watkins as a key signing for the upcoming season. 2. **Financial Implications**: The club must navigate a significant asking price of £60 million from Aston Villa for Watkins. 3. **Future Considerations**: The potential departure of Rasmus Hojlund could further necessitate the acquisition of Watkins, highlighting the urgency of this transfer strategy. In summary, Manchester United's pursuit of Ollie Watkins reflects a critical adjustment in their transfer strategy as they seek to enhance their attacking options amidst competitive pressures in the transfer market [https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45653864/transfer-rumors-news-man-united-eye-watkins-gyokeres-alternative, https://www.nationalworld.com/sport/football/manchester-united-exploring-options-deal-ollie-watkins-amid-interest-arsenal-5204774].