Manchester United are likely to make a bid for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins if Joshua Zirkzee departs Old Trafford, while the club has firmly decided against selling Bruno Fernandes this summer, according to reports. United have already secured the signings of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos as they reshape their midfield under manager Michael Carrick.
Watkins, who scored 21 goals in all competitions for Aston Villa last season, has also attracted interest from Arsenal. However, United’s pursuit hinges on the future of Zirkzee, with speculation suggesting a potential return to Serie A for the Dutch forward. Should Zirkzee leave, United are ‘expected to make an official approach’ for Watkins, with a potential offer of around £40million potentially being considered by Villa. While Aston Villa are not actively seeking to sell Watkins, progress on a club-record deal for Nicolas Jackson could open the door for his departure.
Despite persistent links with other clubs, United have made it clear that Bruno Fernandes will not be allowed to leave this summer. Club sources indicate it would require a “mammoth offer” to convince them to part ways with the Portuguese midfielder, and Carrick has reportedly expressed his delight at working with Fernandes, anticipating a key role for him in the upcoming season. This stance makes a Fernandes exit “very, very slim.”
United are also monitoring goalkeeping options, with Paraguay international Orlando Gill emerging as a potential target. While reports from Gill’s representatives suggest a formal offer from United is imminent, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has dismissed the claims, stating that the club has not yet made contact with San Lorenzo, Gill’s current club. United currently have four senior goalkeepers on their books: Senne Lammens, Karl Darlow, Tom Heaton and Altay Bayindir, with the latter’s future at the club uncertain. The potential addition of Watkins would provide further attacking depth for United, while retaining Fernandes ensures continuity in the squad’s creative core.
