As the final month of the summer transfer window ticks by, Manchester United striker transfer efforts are gathering pace, and it appears the club is zeroing in on two names: Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko.
United’s search for a forward hasn’t slowed since Liam Delap opted for Chelsea earlier in the summer, a move that temporarily threw off Old Trafford’s recruitment rhythm. But the Red Devils, now fueled by fresh intent, have shifted focus to proven Premier League experience on one hand, and promising youth on the other.
Sources inside the club suggest that Watkins, the Aston Villa talisman, is top of the wishlist for manager Ruben Amorim, who values his domestic league experience. Meanwhile, Benjamin Sesko remains an appealing long-term option, one with unfinished business in Manchester after previously turning down the club in 2022.
A Toss-Up Between Reliability and Potential
Watkins, 29, has been a model of consistency at Villa Park. Over five full seasons, he’s netted 75 goals in the Premier League, started over 150 matches, and missed very few through injury. That type of durability, combined with a sharp eye for goal, is exactly what Amorim is believed to want after investing heavily in Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo earlier this summer.
Even more telling is that Watkins is entering the final two years of his Villa contract. While the price tag won’t be light, Villa’s openness to consider offers, especially after turning down Arsenal’s £60 million bid in January, has given United encouragement.
However, the Watkins route comes with a catch: cost versus age. Turning 30 in December, Watkins represents a short-to-mid-term fix. Meanwhile, Benjamin Sesko, just 22, brings future value, albeit with less experience.
The Manchester United striker transfer debate at Carrington, therefore, centers around whether to double down on immediate Premier League readiness or invest in development for the long haul.
A Return to Sesko Talks
Despite rejecting United three years ago to join RB Leipzig, Benjamin Sesko has kept lines of communication open. His agent has reportedly maintained regular visits to Old Trafford and Carrington. The Slovenia international scored 13 times in the Bundesliga last season, solid, though not explosive, but scouts believe his ceiling is far from reached.
Christopher Vivell, United’s director with deep ties to German football, is said to be particularly invested in a potential Sesko deal. However, the competition is heating up, with Newcastle also lurking. And with Leipzig unwilling to part with him cheaply, his contract runs till 2029, the negotiation process could drag.
If United want him now, they’ll have to push hard and fast.
Amorim’s Premier League Bias
One factor swaying the Watkins argument is Amorim’s clear preference for players already adapted to the English top flight. It’s why Cunha and Mbeumo were top picks. United’s playing style under the Portuguese manager emphasizes physicality, tactical awareness, and off-the-ball work rate, traits Watkins has in abundance from his five-year Premier League tenure.
The Manchester United striker transfer decision, therefore, isn’t just about goals; it’s about fit. And while Sesko offers raw potential and European pedigree, Watkins offers plug-and-play certainty.
What Makes This Move Possible
Behind the scenes, United have also been trimming their attacking options. With Marcus Rashford out on a season-long loan to Barcelona, whose full wage coverage of his salary frees up financial room, and potential outgoings for Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Alejandro Garnacho, space is being cleared for a fresh lead striker.
In short, United’s war chest is ready.
Final Weeks, Final Calls
There’s a feeling that the club will not allow this window to end without landing a striker. Both targets are attainable, but each represents a different direction: Watkins is experience, consistency, and assurance. Sesko is upside, a projection, and a bet on the future.
And with Aston Villa reportedly preparing to replace Watkins, lining up Leipzig’s Lois Openda as a contingency, this could be United’s moment to strike.
As fans watch and rivals circle, the Manchester United striker transfer story is heading into its final act. One thing is certain: a new name is coming to Old Trafford soon. Whether it’s a tried-and-tested finisher or a future star remains to be seen.
