Manchester United’s plan to secure the signature of Aston Villa’s star striker, Ollie Watkins, is now facing a major stumbling block. Long-time rivals Arsenal have reportedly entered the race and are eyeing a move for the prolific England international ahead of the 2025/26 season.
As the summer transfer window heats up, the Red Devils have been linked with a long list of strikers. With new manager Ruben Amorim at the helm, United are prioritizing a fresh, clinical finisher to lead their frontline, and Watkins has emerged as one of the most attractive options.
However, according to a recent report from GiveMeSport, Manchester United’s pursuit of Watkins is far from a one-horse race. Arsenal have now expressed serious interest in the 28-year-old forward, setting the stage for a fierce transfer showdown between two Premier League giants.
Both Clubs in Urgent Need of a Proven Striker
Just like United, Arsenal are also desperately seeking a new top-class striker to reinforce their attack ahead of the new campaign.
Currently, Mikel Arteta’s side relies heavily on Gabriel Jesus, who has struggled to maintain consistent fitness throughout the past season. Despite his technical quality and versatility, Jesus’ recurring injuries have limited his impact in big matches — especially in key moments of Arsenal’s Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
This has forced the North London club to turn their attention to the market. While they’ve long been linked with names like Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, both players are proving difficult to acquire, prompting Arsenal to shift their focus to a more attainable and proven target — Ollie Watkins.
Ollie Watkins: A Premier League-Proven Talent
One of the key factors making Watkins such an attractive prospect is his consistent performance in the Premier League. The Aston Villa talisman enjoyed a standout 2024/25 season, scoring 21 league goals and providing 9 assists, helping Villa secure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.
Unlike some overseas targets who may require time to adapt, Watkins brings Premier League experience, tactical intelligence, and a relentless work ethic — attributes that appeal greatly to both Amorim and Arteta.
Watkins’ off-the-ball movement, physical presence, and ability to press from the front are qualities that make him a perfect fit for the high-intensity playing styles of both Manchester United and Arsenal.
Aston Villa Set £60 Million Price Tag
Despite the growing interest in their star man, Aston Villa are reluctant to part ways with Ollie Watkins. The Midlands club reportedly values the player at £60 million, and they are in a strong negotiating position after Watkins signed a contract extension until 2028 earlier this year.
This hefty price tag could serve as a barrier for some clubs, but for title-chasing sides like Arsenal and Manchester United, investing in a player of Watkins’ caliber may prove to be a wise long-term move.
Who Will Win the Race?
With both Manchester United and Arsenal eager to secure an elite striker, the battle for Ollie Watkins could become one of the most gripping transfer sagas of the summer. United are determined to give Amorim the tools he needs to rebuild the squad, while Arsenal are keen to add the final piece to a title-contending puzzle.
Whichever club ends up signing Watkins will not only gain a proven goalscorer but also deliver a blow to a direct rival. One thing is clear: the race for Ollie Watkins is on, and it could define the attacking fortunes of two Premier League powerhouses for years to come.
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