Manchester United and Arsenal are both keeping a close eye on Ollie Watkins, with the Aston Villa striker emerging as one of the Premier League’s most sought-after forwards as the summer transfer window enters its final stages.
According to reports, United are considering a move for the 30-year-old England international if Joshua Zirkzee leaves the club. The Dutch striker has been linked with a return to Serie A, and Watkins is viewed as an experienced option who could add goals and leadership to Michael Carrick’s attack.
Arsenal are also monitoring the situation. The Gunners could revive their long-standing interest in Watkins if Gabriel Jesus departs this summer after attracting interest from several clubs. Watkins, a lifelong Arsenal supporter, has been admired internally for years and is seen as a proven Premier League goal scorer who would fit Mikel Arteta’s system.
Villa are not actively looking to sell their star striker, having rejected interest from Turkish side Fenerbahce earlier in the window. However, reports suggest the Midlands club could be willing to listen to offers in the region of £40 million, particularly as they continue balancing UEFA financial regulations while reshaping their squad.
Should Watkins leave, Unai Emery is reportedly considering Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson as one of the options to bolster his attack. Villa are expected to secure a replacement before allowing any move for their leading striker.
For now, no formal bids have been submitted by either Manchester United or Arsenal. Much will depend on departures at both clubs, with Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford and Gabriel Jesus’ situation at the Emirates likely to shape whether interest develops into concrete negotiations.
