Manchester United has identified Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko as key targets in their ongoing search for new strikers, according to sources cited by ESPN.
After losing out on Liam Dellup, who opted to join Chelsea from Ipswich Town, the club has explored various alternatives.
Following Brian Mbemo’s transfer from Brentford, United is eager to recruit a new No. 9 for Old Trafford.
Watkins and Sesko are viewed as the most promising options remaining after Liverpool secured Hugo Ekitike and Arsenal acquired Viktor Gyökeres.
Concerns have emerged about the financial implications of acquiring either player, given their respective valuations from Aston Villa and RB Leipzig.
Representatives for both players have been approached to discuss the financial details involved. However, no decisions have been made about prioritizing Watkins or Sesko.
Sesko’s potential move is complicated by interest from Newcastle United.
Manchester United is considering the 22-year-old Slovenian international as concerns grow that Alexander Isak might depart for Liverpool.
Sources indicate that United believes Sesko will choose them over Newcastle, even with Eddie Howe’s team in the Champions League, if they initiate talks with RB Leipzig first.
Meanwhile, while Aston Villa maintains Watkins is content at the club, United feels a reasonable offer could persuade them to part with the 29-year-old, who was previously pursued by Arsenal.
United is unlikely to match Arsenal’s £60 million ($80 million) bid made six months ago but values the English player at approximately £40 million.
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Club officials aim to enhance their market flexibility by generating funds from players like Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia.
A loan move for Marcus Rashford to Barcelona has already created some financial space.
The push for a new striker raises questions about Rasmus Højlund’s future, as his preference is to remain, yet the competition for his position is intensifying.
Napoli and Juventus have expressed continued interest in Højlund’s status.
The 22-year-old managed only four Premier League goals last season, marking a challenging second year with United after his initial £64 million transfer from Atalanta in 2023.
In the ever-evolving landscape of soccer transfers, Manchester United’s pursuit of Watkins and Sesko highlights the strategic challenges faced by clubs aiming to strengthen their squads. For fans, these potential signings could dramatically influence not only the fortunes of United but also the broader competitive dynamics in top-tier soccer.
