Watkins and Sesko Lead the Line in Manchester United’s Summer Striker Hunt
Manchester United are exploring their options for a new centre-forward, with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko emerging as their top two targets during the current transfer window.
Despite already spending close to £130 million this summer on attackers Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo—both expected to play behind the striker—United remain open to adding more firepower up front. However, any further signings may hinge on the sale of fringe players before the September 1 deadline.
Bringing either Watkins or Sesko to Old Trafford is expected to be complicated. Aston Villa are reluctant to part with the 29-year-old Watkins, who is under contract until 2028. United believe Villa’s stance could soften later in the window, but they consider a reported £60 million valuation too steep.
Meanwhile, 22-year-old Sesko, who netted 13 goals in the Bundesliga last season, is also on Newcastle’s radar—especially as uncertainty surrounds their star striker Alexander Isak.
Internally, there’s also pressure on Rasmus Højlund to deliver. The Danish striker has yet to score in pre-season, despite showing promise in United’s recent 2-1 win over West Ham in New Jersey. Manager Ruben Amorim praised his physicality, but his missed chances have not gone unnoticed.
United’s summer rebuild has seen three new faces arrive so far, including teenage defender Diego Leon. With Marcus Rashford sold to Barcelona and the likes of Antony, Garnacho, Sancho, and Malacia left out of the US tour, offloading these high-wage players may be essential to fund further signings.
Amorim has also made it clear: players with Premier League experience are now a top priority.
