Manchester United’s hopes of signing prolific striker Ollie Watkins have hit a firm wall, as Aston Villa have made it clear that the England international is simply not for sale under any circumstances.
Despite new manager Rúben Amorim prioritizing the addition of a top-class center forward in the remaining weeks of the summer transfer window, Villa are standing their ground. The Birmingham-based club has no interest in cashing in on their talismanic forward—even in the face of growing pressure from one of England’s biggest clubs.
Watkins Emerges as Key Target for Amorim’s United Rebuild
Following the arrival of Portuguese tactician Rúben Amorim, Manchester United have shown a clear shift in their transfer policy—targeting experienced Premier League players who can make an immediate impact. The Red Devils have already spent a reported £133.5 million to bring in versatile attacker Matheus Cunha from Wolves and dynamic forward Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford.
However, the glaring need for a traditional number nine remains. Among the shortlisted names, Ollie Watkins has risen to the top due to his clinical finishing, relentless work rate, and consistent performances in the English top flight.
Since his move from Brentford in 2020 for £33 million, Watkins has become a central figure at Villa Park, tallying an impressive 75 goals and 34 assists in 184 Premier League appearances. His blend of pace, movement, and pressing ability makes him a dream fit for Amorim’s high-energy system.
Arsenal’s Failed Attempt and United’s Latest Push
Watkins’ rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. Back in January, Arsenal reportedly submitted a £60 million bid for the 29-year-old forward—but Villa instantly rejected the offer, unwilling to part ways with a player seen as vital to their ambitions.
Now, Manchester United have stepped up their pursuit, but according to a report by The Telegraph, Aston Villa have once again shut the door. The club has communicated internally and externally that Watkins is “not for sale under any circumstances,” effectively ending any possibility of a move this summer.
Aston Villa Stand Firm—Again
This isn’t the first time Aston Villa have rebuffed Manchester United’s advances. Earlier in the window, United made an attempt to bring in goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez on loan, but the Midlands club declined. However, unlike Watkins, Martínez might be available for a £40 million fee if the right offer arrives.
Villa’s resistance to selling their star players underscores their ambition under manager Unai Emery, especially as the club prepares for a return to European football in the upcoming season.
Player-Swap Rumors Involving Garnacho
In a surprising twist, there were murmurs of a potential player-plus-cash deal involving Alejandro Garnacho. The Argentine winger has been linked with a possible exit from Old Trafford, and reports suggested Villa were one of several Premier League clubs interested in the youngster.
However, while Garnacho is undoubtedly a talent with a bright future, he doesn’t fit the profile of a direct replacement for Watkins. Following the £65 million sale of Jhon Durán to Al-Nassr in January, Villa are already short of natural strikers, making it even more unlikely they would entertain selling their main man.
Emery Praises Watkins as “Ideal Professional”
Villa boss Unai Emery has made no secret of his admiration for Ollie Watkins. In a March interview with TNT Sports, the Spaniard lauded the forward’s mentality and influence both on and off the pitch.
“He’s fantastic,” Emery said. “His work ethic, his daily commitment—it’s something every manager wants in a player.”
“Yes, scoring goals is important, but Ollie offers so much more. Even when he’s not on the scoresheet or providing assists, he’s pressing, tracking back, and setting the tone for the rest of the team. His defensive effort is immense.”
“What makes him special is his mindset. He’s a complete professional and a great example for the squad,” Emery concluded.
What’s Next for Manchester United?
With Watkins off the market, Rúben Amorim and the Manchester United recruitment team will now need to explore alternative options as they look to finalize the squad ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Whether United can secure a striker of similar caliber remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Aston Villa won’t be making it easy for their Premier League rivals this summer.
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