Man United 'unwilling' to meet £60m price tag for proven PL striker

Manchester United are looking to sign a new striker for a third consecutive summer.

After splashing out on Rasmus Hojlund in 2023 and Joshua Zirkzee in 2024, the Red Devils still lack a reliable frontman capable of consistently leading the line.

Both centre-forwards have failed to address the goal-scoring woes at Old Trafford.

It was revealed recently that United will make a move for Ollie Watkins if Hojlund heads for the exit door.

According to The Mirror, Villa would want around £60 million for Watkins but United are unwilling to pay that amount.

The 29-year-old has three years left on his deal with the Villans.

We believe United should not explore ways to sign Watkins at the reported price.

Given his age and lack of resale value, Watkins simply does not align with the forward-thinking recruitment strategy INEOS and CEO Omar Berrada are implementing.

The club’s current transfer model revolves around signing emerging talent aged 26 or younger.

These players not only add value on the pitch but could also fetch strong returns in the future.

There is no doubt that Watkins will be an upgrade over current options in the squad but Villa’s sky-high fee demands make no sense.

United find themselves in a difficult position after missing out on Liam Delap, who joined Chelsea instead.

Victor Osimhen remains a dream option, but his eye-watering salary demands make a deal financially implausible.

Viktor Gyokeres is another alternative, but he is prioritising a switch to Arsenal for the lure of Champions League football.

With their shortlist shrinking, United have to delve deeper into the market to unearth a hidden gem.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .