Manchester United’s Summer Transfer Focus
Manchester United has shifted its focus in the summer transfer window towards two key striker targets, Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa and Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig. After bolstering their squad with the signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, the club is now prioritizing the addition of another forward. While no formal decisions have been made yet regarding which player to pursue, discussions are underway with both candidates to assess the financial aspects of potential transfers.
Financial Considerations and Player Sales
The club’s interest in alternative striker Nicolas Jackson has been dismissed after Chelsea imposed prohibitive demands. It is essential for United to generate funds through player sales to facilitate a significant incoming transfer. Alejandro Garnacho and Antony are among the players being evaluated for sale, which, combined with a potential sale of Jadon Sancho, could provide the necessary resources to bring in a new striker.
Evaluating Striker Options
The ongoing examination of Watkins and Sesko considers their distinct playing styles and overall fit within manager Ruben Amorim’s tactical setup. Aston Villa has made it clear that Watkins is not officially on the market, yet there is a prevailing belief at Manchester that a deal could potentially be struck. United is unlikely to meet the £60 million asking price that Villa previously set for Arsenal but could propose an offer between £40 million and £45 million instead.
“Watkins, who has been a standout performer in the Premier League with 75 goals in 184 appearances, has consistently scored double figures over the past five seasons and notched 24 goal contributions last season.”
His established rapport with Mbeumo from their time at Brentford is also seen as advantageous.
Challenges in Acquiring Sesko
On the other hand, acquiring Sesko could involve a more significant financial commitment. Following his renewal with Leipzig, the 22-year-old has a release agreement that would permit his departure for around €80 million to €90 million (£69 million to £78 million) should an elite club come calling. This hefty price tag previously deterred Arsenal from pursuing him earlier in the summer. Though United has been tracking him since his teenage years, there is concern within the club about whether his goal tally of 13 in 33 Bundesliga matches can justify the financial outlay required.
Moreover, the competition for Sesko is heating up, as Newcastle has identified him as a primary option should they lose star striker Alexander Isak to Liverpool. With United needing to tread carefully regarding player acquisitions and outflows, the club’s strategy reflects a deliberate shift towards experienced talent from the Premier League, aiming for a seamless integration into the squad.
Potential Impact on United’s Attack
If United were to secure Watkins, he would likely become their pivotal goal-scoring option, bringing a proven record in the league and adding a new dynamic to their attacking front. His development under Unai Emery has transformed him into a key figure in Villa’s offense, exhibiting versatility and a greater goal-scoring consistency.
While Sesko boasts considerable potential and attributes that could elevate any attack, including in-game intelligence and physical prowess, concerns regarding his current goal return may complicate his recruitment. Despite his towering height of 6ft 5in, he possesses remarkable agility and dribbling skills, making him a formidable presence for opposing defenders.
Conclusion
Ultimately, United’s decision between Watkins and Sesko may well dictate the landscape of their attacking line for the upcoming season, as they navigate a complex market filled with financial considerations and competitive offers from other clubs.
