Manchester United are keeping tabs on Ollie Watkins as they explore several striker options in the summer transfer window. Ruben Amorim would like to add a striker to his squad this summer, though any move will depend on player sales to raise the required transfer funds.
Amorim still views Sporting star Viktor Gyokeres as the dream addition in attack, though he is believed to prefer a move to Arsenal, while Victor Osimhen is deemed an unlikely target due to his wage demands. United won't move for Hugo Ekitike unless Eintracht Frankfurt lower their €100m asking price.
It means Watkins might be the best attainable option this summer, with the 29-year-old an experienced Premier League striker who would bring an immediate improvement to their attack. Here is a look at the shirt numbers he could wear if he made the move to Old Trafford.
1. EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 26: General View of Manchester United kit in the dressing room prior to the Premier League Summer Series match between Manchester United & West Ham United FC at MetLife Stadium on July 26, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
The shirt numbers available for any new Manchester United signings | Manchester United via Getty Images
2. No.1 - Altay Bayindir
United are open to selling Bayindir this summer and his exit would vacate the No.1 shirt. | Manchester United via Getty Images
3. No.9 - Rasmus Hojlund
United could sell Hojlund if they sign Sesko and the No.9 shirt would be the obvious choice. | Manchester United via Getty Images
4. No.12 - Tyrell Malacia
United aim to sell Malacia in the final month of the window and his shirt number is effectively free already. | Getty Images