Manchester United is not focusing solely on Benjamin Sesko in their search for a new centre-forward. According to various English media outlets, Ollie Watkins who was the match-winner against the Netherlands at last year’s Euros is also seriously being considered.
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Manchester United have already made significant moves in the transfer market this summer, investing heavily to bolster their attacking options.
The arrivals of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford, for a combined fee of approximately €150 million, signal a clear intention from the club to revamp their offensive line ahead of the new season. However, despite these high-profile acquisitions, the Red Devils are not yet satisfied with the current state of their frontline and remain determined to bring in a top-class centre-forward someone with the physical presence, clinical finishing, and Premier League pedigree to lead the line effectively.
This urgency stems in part from the underwhelming performances of Rasmus Højlund, who joined United last summer with high expectations but has struggled to consistently deliver goals. While the Danish striker has shown flashes of potential, the club’s hierarchy believes he still lacks the consistency and experience required to be the main source of goals in a team aiming to return to the top of English football. As a result, United are actively exploring options to bring in a more proven and reliable goalscorer one capable of easing the pressure on Højlund and significantly raising the team’s attacking output.
Earlier this week, it was revealed that United are pursuing RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, a 21-year-old Slovenian international who is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards. Sesko’s blend of height, pace, and technical ability has earned him admirers across the continent, and his performances in the Bundesliga last season did not go unnoticed. United see him as a long-term solution with enormous upside, but they are not alone in the race: Newcastle United are also actively trying to sign the striker, and their growing financial power under new ownership makes them a serious competitor.
In addition to Sesko, United have now identified another major target: Ollie Watkins. The 29-year-old Aston Villa striker, who played a pivotal role in his club’s remarkable 2023–24 campaign that saw them qualify for the UEFA Champions League, has emerged as a serious candidate to fill the void up front at Old Trafford. Watkins, known for his relentless work rate, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing, also delivered a standout moment for England at Euro 2024, scoring the decisive goal in the semi-final against the Netherlands. His ability to perform on big stages has not gone unnoticed by United scouts and decision-makers.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Watkins is currently the preferred choice of manager Erik ten Hag and the recruitment team at Carrington. His proven record in the Premier League, coupled with his strong character and fitness record, make him a highly attractive option. However, reports from the BBC and The Athletic suggest that no final decision has been made, and that both Watkins and Sesko are still under active consideration. This indecision may in part be due to the vastly different profiles of the two players Watkins offers immediate impact and leadership, while Sesko represents a long-term project with enormous potential resale value.
United’s pursuit of either striker is, however, complicated by financial constraints and the need to remain compliant with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). With the club having already spent heavily this summer, significant sales will be required to fund another major purchase. Current estimates suggest that Watkins could cost around €50 million, while Sesko's price tag may rise as high as €80–90 million, depending on competition and negotiation leverage.
In order to raise the necessary funds, United are reportedly open to offloading several high-profile players. Marcus Rashford, once considered a cornerstone of the team’s future, has been loaned out to Barcelona in a surprise move aimed at helping him rediscover form and confidence. Meanwhile, Antony whose hefty transfer fee and inconsistent performances have made him a controversial figure has also been made available. In addition, young Argentine winger Alejandro Garnacho and England international Jadon Sancho could both be allowed to leave, either on loan or permanent deals, should suitable offers arrive.
The potential departure of so many attacking players underlines the scale of the overhaul United are attempting this summer. It also reflects a broader strategy from the club’s new football leadership, which is now being guided by INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s influence behind the scenes. Their ambition is clear: to rebuild Manchester United into a modern, dynamic, and competitive force capable of challenging for domestic and European honours once again. The decision between Sesko and Watkins may ultimately define the direction United take in the coming seasons whether to build around youthful promise or established quality.
Regardless of who ends up at Old Trafford, it is evident that Manchester United are undergoing one of their most ambitious and aggressive transfer windows in years. With expectations sky-high and the pressure mounting, the club cannot afford to get their striker decision wrong.
