Manchester United have been linked with a move for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins in recent days. With his impressive goal-scoring record, work rate, and versatility, Watkins has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most reliable forwards. But would he be a good signing for Manchester United?
The Case for Signing Ollie Watkins
Ollie Watkins has been a revelation since joining Aston Villa from Brentford in 2020. His 2023/24 season was particularly standout, with 19 goals and 13 assists in 37 Premier League appearances, showcasing his ability to both score and create. His versatility—capable of leading the line, dropping deep, or playing off the wing—makes him a modern forward who fits the tactical flexibility demanded by top clubs. For Manchester United, whose attack has often lacked consistency, Watkins could provide a dependable focal point.
One of Watkins’ biggest strengths is his work rate. He presses relentlessly, tracks back, and contributes defensively, qualities that align with the high-pressing systems favored by many modern managers, including United’s current boss, Erik ten Hag. His ability to link play would also complement United’s young attacking talents like Rasmus Højlund, Alejandro Garnacho, and Amad Diallo, potentially creating a dynamic front line.
Ollie Watkins breaks the deadlock against his former club! 🔓
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 8, 2025
His sixth goal in six games against Brentford since he left 🔥 pic.twitter.com/RB7wZ9td3Z
Watkins’ Premier League experience is another major plus. At 29 (as of 2025), he’s in his prime, with a proven track record in England’s top flight. Unlike foreign signings who may need time to adapt, Watkins could hit the ground running, minimizing the risk of a transitional period. His international pedigree, with 18 caps and five goals for England, further underscores his ability to perform on big stages, including his memorable goal in the Euro 2024 semi-final against the Netherlands.
Financially, while Villa would likely demand a hefty fee—potentially in the £70-80 million range—United’s recent spending suggests they’re willing to invest in proven talent.
The Case Against Signing Ollie Watkins
Despite his qualities, there are legitimate questions about whether Watkins is the right fit for Manchester United. For one, his age could be a sticking point. At 29, he doesn’t align perfectly with United’s recent focus on younger players with high resale value, such as Højlund (22) or Joshua Zirkzee (24). Spending upwards of £70 million on a player approaching 30 carries risks, especially if his form dips or injuries creep in.
While Watkins could complement Højlund in a two-striker system or provide competition, his signing might disrupt the Dane’s development. Zirkzee, meanwhile, offers a different profile as a playmaking forward, and it’s unclear how Watkins would fit into a squad already juggling multiple attacking options. United’s midfield and defensive frailties—evident in their inconsistent 2024/25 campaign—might also mean that funds would be better allocated elsewhere, such as a world-class holding midfielder or a commanding centre-back.
Watkins’ goal-scoring record, while impressive, also raises questions about his ceiling. His 19 goals in 2023/24 were a career high, but he’s never consistently hit the 20-goal mark in a Premier League season. For a club like United, aiming to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool, a more prolific or clinical finisher—someone like Victor Osimhen or even a younger prospect—might be a better long-term investment. Watkins’ reliance on high-volume shooting (he averaged 3.2 shots per game in 2023/24) suggests he’s not the most clinical, which could be exposed in United’s high-pressure environment.
There’s also the question of whether Watkins can handle the step up. While he’s thrived at Villa, a club with top-four ambitions, Manchester United’s global spotlight brings intense scrutiny. The pressure to perform at Old Trafford has overwhelmed many talented players in recent years, and Watkins, who has spent most of his career at clubs with lower expectations, might struggle to adapt.
Conclusion: A Good Signing, But Not a Perfect One
Ollie Watkins would bring undeniable qualities to Manchester United: Premier League pedigree, versatility, work rate, and a knack for scoring crucial goals. He could provide immediate impact and stability to an attack that has often lacked cohesion. However, his age, the high transfer fee, and questions about his ceiling raise doubts about whether he’s the transformative signing United need to compete for titles.
