Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones believe Man Utd are trying to sign a 'magnificent' star who is a 'real handful'


Ruben Amorim is keen to sign a new striker this summer, in order to replace Rasmus Hojliund, who scored just four goals in the Premier League last season. The Danish international has been subject to transfer interest from Serie A side Napoli, and could leave Old Trafford this summer.
Whether Hojlund leaves or not, United are expected to bring in a new number nine, to help boost their goals tally next year. They have been linked to Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres, but it seems that the Swedish international is prioritising a move to rivals Arsenal.
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Hide AdUnited have alternative targets, one of which has previously received praise from former Red Devils Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones, both of whom hail how difficult he is to play against as a defender, the sort of attacking prowess that United needs.
Man United urged to sign Ollie Watkins
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer. It had been reported that United tried to suggest a swap deal with Rashford going to Villa, and Watkins coming to Man United. However, it is understood that Villa don’t want Rashford permanently, and are demanding around £60m for Watkins.
United need someone who can lead the line, and not only play as a target man, but also run in-behind opposing defences in order to help score goals and boost Ruben Amorim’s side, who struggled to score last season.
Former Man United centre-back Rio Ferdinand has previously praised Watkins’ ability, even picking him ahead of Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, who has been linked with Liverpool and Arsenal.
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Hide AdFerdinand was quoted by the Daily Mail after a Premier League game in 2023, he said: “He [Watkins] was magnificent. I’m talking from a defender’s point of view, if you asked me who [you would] pick out of [Alexander] Isak, [Callum] Wilson and Watkins, Watkins would give you a hard day’s work.
“He asks you all the questions a defender doesn’t want. Are you willing to run into areas you’re not comfortable with? Are you willing to match him physically? He’s already on the move, he’s brave, he takes the ball at all times, isn’t scared to make mistakes and he’s got a humility about the way he plays as well.”
Phil Jones hails Watkins as a “handful”
Considering that Man United have already signed Matheus Cunha from Wolves, their front line could really be dangerous if they were to bring Watkins in too, especially considering that they also want to sign Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford.
Alongside Ferdinand, former Man United defender Phil Jones is also full of praise for Watkins, seeing him as a very difficult player to defend against. He said to BBC Sport last year: “He is a terrific player - he has shown that for club and country now.
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Hide Ad"What I like about him is that he can come short and offer that dynamic, but he can also go in behind. He is a real handful and he is quite comfortable playing on the shoulder of the defender."
Watkins made 54 appearances for Villa last season, scoring 17 goals and providing 14 assists in all competitions. He also broke out for the England national team in the Euros last year, scoring the late winning goal against the Netherlands to send the Three Lions to the final against Spain. In 18 games for England, Watkins has scored five goals.
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