How Liverpool could still sign Isak despite £265m splurge

The rise, fall and rebirth of England's clutch queen Kelly

Why Europe's elite are chasing AZ's De Bruyne regen

How does Nwaneri fit in to Arsenal's new-look front five?

When Kaka's AC Milan smashed Boca Juniors 

Editors' Picks

Real Madrid vs Al Hilal: Stream, TV channels & where to watch

Pachuca vs Salzburg: Stream, TV channels & where to watch

Manchester City vs Wydad Casablanca: Stream, TV channels & where to watch

Monterrey vs Inter: Stream, TV channels & where to watch

Seat Unique names founding partner of Hill Dickinson Stadium 

Man City outcast Walker reassured over pace questions & future

Newlyweds Dyer & Bowen do not fear famous Strictly ‘curse’

Man City warned off transfer gamble on free agent Pogba 

<ul><li>Aston Villa reject United’s fresh approach for Ollie Watkins</li><li>Watkins remains key to Unai Emery’s long-term project</li><li>United eye proven striker as Amorim rebuild continues</li></ul><table><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va2ivxLJJhzdzbJdwo0n"><strong>Follow GOAL on WhatsApp!</strong></a> 🟢📱</td></tr></tbody></table><script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script>

Aston Villa issue immediate response after Man Utd make fresh approach for striker Ollie Watkins amid talk of potential £60m transfer

Club Friendlies

Manchester United

West Ham

Eintracht Frankfurt

Aston Villa

<p><a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/ollie-watkins-replacement-aston-villa-eye-eur80m-striker-man-utd-interest-in-england-international/blt107f7dbffe8002f4" target="_blank">Manchester United have made a fresh enquiry for Watkins</a> as they search for a new striker. The England international is viewed as an ideal fit given his Premier League experience and form. However, Villa immediately informed United that Watkins is not available at any price, as per <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/07/24/aston-villa-issue-hands-off-ollie-watkins-warning-man-utd/" target="_blank"><em>The Telegraph</em></a><em>.</em></p>

WHAT HAPPENED?

<p>Watkins was also a target for Arsenal in January, but Villa rejected the offer and sold Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr instead. The Villans are determined to keep Emery's core players at Villa Park ahead of a busy season, including Europa League football. Watkins remains a key part of Emery’s long-term vision, and the club do not appear open to a summer sale.</p>

THE BIGGER PICTURE

<p>Manchester United’s interest in Watkins is part of a wider rebuild under boss Ruben Amorim this summer. While other players like Emi Martinez, who is also a target for the Red Devils, could be available for the right fee, Villa have no plans to cash in on Watkins. The 29-year-old scored 27 goals in all competitions last season and is under contract until 2028.</p>

TELL ME MORE...

<p>Unless Aston Villa change their stance, United will have to look elsewhere for a proper striker. Watkins is set to remain at Villa Park, with Emery and the club planning to build around him. United may now revisit other targets in the Premier League or abroad as pre-season progresses.</p>

WHAT NEXT FOR WATKINS?

Aston Villa issue immediate response after Man Utd make fresh approach for striker Ollie Watkins amid talk of potential £60m transfer | Goal.com

Aston Villa have reportedly shut down Manchester United’s latest approach for Ollie Watkins, insisting the England striker is not for sale. The Red Devils are keen on adding a proven striker, but the Villains have made it clear they won’t entertain offers. The 29-year-old is said to be central to Unai Emery’s plans heading into the 2025/26 season.

Next matches