Manchester United are eyeing Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as potential striker signings during the ongoing transfer window, but any move will depend on the club offloading surplus players before the September 1 deadline.
United acknowledge the need to strengthen their attacking options, but must first raise funds through player sales. However, signing either target presents significant challenges.
Villa have made it clear they do not intend to sell Watkins, whose contract runs until 2028. United, though, believe that stance could soften closer to the deadline. Still, the club views the reported £60 million asking price for the 29-year-old England international as excessive.
Sesko, 22, who netted 13 goals in 33 Bundesliga appearances last season, is also attracting interest from Newcastle United, especially as uncertainty surrounds their striker Alexander Isak.
Currently, manager Ruben Amorim prefers Rasmus Hojlund as his main centre-forward despite the Dane’s struggles. Hojlund scored just 10 goals in 52 matches last season and has yet to find the net in two pre-season games. While Amorim praised his work rate in a recent 2-1 win over West Ham in New Jersey, a missed first-half chance reportedly drew frustration.
United have already spent close to £130 million this summer, bringing in attackers Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo — both of whom are more suited to play in Amorim’s two attacking midfield roles — and young defender Diego Leon.
Amorim recently stated he prefers players with Premier League experience, suggesting Watkins may be a more desirable fit if a deal can be reached.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford has joined Barcelona, and several fringe players — including Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrrell Malacia — were excluded from the club’s U.S. tour. Amorim insists the club won’t let them go cheaply and remains open to reintegrating them if needed.
