Man Utd hold fresh talks with £60m Viktor Gyokeres alternative after swap proposal discarded

Manchester United are looking to sign a striker this summer, with Viktor Gyokeres previously the Red Devils’ first-choice option. United were hoping to re-unite the Sporting CP striker with manager Ruben Amorim, but it looks as though the Sweden international is most likely to join rivals Arsenal now.

With that in mind, United are expected to go after alternative targets as they look to bring in a new number nine to replace Rasmus Hojlund, who had a poor season last year, scoring just four goals in the Premier League.

They have been linked to several strikers, such as Hugo Ekitike, Victor Osimhen and Ivan Toney, but according to fresh reports, it seems the Red Devils have found their second-choice behind Gyokeres, and he comes from the Premier League.

Man United hold Ollie Watkins talks

Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins has also been linked to United this summer, with reports earlier this week suggesting that United made contact with Villa over a potential swap deal sending Marcus Rashford to Villa Park, and Watkins to Old Trafford.

It came after Villa rejected the option to buy Rashford for £40m following his loan spell with the club in the second half of last season. However, even though Aston Villa rejected the chance to swap Watkins for Rashford, it seems that United haven’t given up in their pursuit of the England international and remain keen.

According to a report by the Daily Star, Man United have held talks regarding a move for Watkins, who is expected to cost around £60m this summer. Arsenal made a £40m bid to sign the 29-year-old during the January transfer window, but this was quickly rejected by Villa as they want at least £60m for him.

Last season, Watkins made 54 appearances for Unai Emery’s side, scoring 17 goals and providing 14 assists. It has been suggested that the Villa striker could leave this summer as he became unsettled due to Emery prioritising Rashford over him in the starting XI during his loan spell at the club last season.

How likely is a Watkins to Man United transfer?

Firstly, Man United would have to place a significant bid to tempt Villa to sign their talisman, as he has scored 75 Premier League goals for the Midlands-based club, making him their record goal scorer in the top division, surpassing Gabby Agbonlahor. They will likely be reluctant to sell him.

Secondly, Watkins would need to want the move, something that could be an issue, seeing as Man United don’t have any form of European football. Villa will play in the Europa League next season, and so that could be a lure for him to stay.

However, the draw of playing for Man United, and playing at Old Trafford every week could tempt the striker, alongside whether he is a fan of Ruben Amorim and the vision that the Man United boss has for the future.

He is yet to speak on his future plans, but has said what his goals are as a player. Watkins told Birmingham Live: “A hundred Premier League goals - I think that puts you into another category. I’m not too far off that - 25 to go - that can happen in a season. And to win a trophy.”

In other news, 'It won't be easy' - Club president confirms 'complex' Manchester United transfer talks for 'fantastic' player.