Manchester United have stepped away from signing Ollie Watkins after Aston Villa asked for a big £60 million fee.
The Red Devils are in need of a top striker, but this deal looks too expensive for them, especially as Watkins is 29 and will turn 30 by the end of the season.
United Still Struggling After Tough Season
Last season was one of the worst for Manchester United.
They finished 15th in the Premier League and lost the Europa League final to Spurs, which means no European football next season.
The team looked poor in defence, the midfield was slow, and the attack was weak.
Even though Ruben Amorim came in as manager halfway through the season, things didn’t get better. He has now left the club.
With all these problems, United went into the summer transfer window looking for big changes.
They brought in new players like Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and young talent Diogo Leon.
But still, fans know the biggest problem is the striker position. Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee missed too many chances last season, and the team lacked goals.
Why Watkins Deal Fell Apart
Manchester United had hoped to solve their striker issues by signing Ollie Watkins.
The Aston Villa forward is fast, makes good runs, and always works hard for the team.
Many fans believed he could be the answer.
But, according to Football Insider, Paul Robinson shared that Villa wanted £60 million for the striker.
That’s a high price for a player close to 30 years old. United didn’t want to spend that much, so they pulled out of the deal.
Even clubs like Arsenal and Newcastle have shown interest in Watkins before but backed out due to his price.
He still has three years left on his Villa contract, and manager Unai Emery wants to keep him.
What’s Next for United?
Now that the Watkins deal is off, United must look at other options.
Benjamin Sesko seems to be going to Newcastle, so that door is closing too.
There’s a chance that United may now turn to Randal Kolo Muani, who is still available.
If they don’t sign someone soon, fans fear the club will have to stick with Højlund, who is still very young and not fully ready to lead the line alone.
United need an experienced goal-scorer now, not just potential.
Selling a player like Alejandro Garnacho could bring in enough money to try again for a top striker.
But time is running out, and the new season is almost here. United must act fast or risk another poor year.
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