Manchester United have narrowed their striker shortlist to Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko as they look to strengthen their attack, according to The Athletic.
Following the arrivals of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, United are now focused on adding a central striker. They remain in contact with Aston Villa and RB Leipzig to determine the financial demands for Watkins and Sesko, though no final decision has been made on which option to pursue.
United have ruled out a move for Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson due to the club’s valuation. Watkins, 29, is admired for his Premier League consistency, registering 75 goals in 184 games for Villa. Last season, he contributed 24 goals and assists in the league, behind only Isak and Haaland among strikers, and has hit double figures in five consecutive seasons.
Manchester United have made contact to explore the potential costs of signing either Ollie Watkins or Benjamin Sesko after narrowing their striker search.#MUFC believe a deal for Watkins could be done for £40m-£45m; Sesko is likely to be around £69m-£78m.
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) July 29, 2025
Villa maintain that Watkins is not for sale, but United believe a deal could be reached below the £60m asking price, targeting a figure between £40m and £45m. His age and limited resale value are being considered, although his proven record in England and prior link-up with Mbeumo at Brentford are seen as positives.
Sesko, 22, would command a higher fee, understood to be in the €80m-€90m range, based on his contract terms at Leipzig. United’s interest in Sesko dates back to his youth career at Domzale, and director of recruitment Christopher Vivell previously worked with him at Salzburg and Leipzig. Despite concerns over his Bundesliga goal return last season (13 in 33 games), his age and resale value are seen as advantages.
United must sell to buy, with Garnacho, Antony, and Sancho among those potentially available to generate funds. Newcastle are also strongly interested in Sesko and could escalate their efforts if Isak departs.
United will now weigh their options, balancing squad needs, finances, and market movement.
Photo: Matt McNulty/Getty Images
