Aston Villa Responds To Manchester United’s Transfer Approach For Ollie Watkins Amid Interest

‎Manchester United have reportedly reconnected with Aston Villa regarding a potential approach for Ollie Watkins.

‎Villa has previously indicated they would want around £60 million for the England international, whose contract runs until 2028.

‎However, Aston Villa has made it clear that Ollie Watkins is not available for transfer this summer.

‎United remain intent on signing a new No. 9 as part of Ruben Amorim’s rebuilding plans, with a priority for a player with proven Premier League experience.

‎Watkins, the England international, has emerged as a strong option with United inquiring about his availability.

‎However, Villa has no intention of letting the 29-year-old go this summer and maintains that he is not for sale under any circumstances.

‎Watkins was previously targeted by Arsenal in the January transfer window, but Villa rejected their offer and chose to sell Jhon Duran to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr for £65 million instead.

‎Watkins, who Villa signed for £33m from Brentford in 2020, is the second Villa player to attract interest from United since the end of last season, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also under consideration.

‎United made a surprise loan offer for the Argentine World Cup winner which was instantly rejected by Villa.

‎Although Martinez’s future is still uncertain, Villa will only consider selling him if a club meets their valuation, which is believed to be approximately £40 million.

‎Martinez has traveled with the Villa squad to the United States for their pre-season tour.