Manchester United are watching Ollie Watkins as they attempt to end their search for a top-class striker.

United boss Erik Ten Hag remains in the hunt for a number nine after the Red Devils cut short their pursuit of England captain Harry Kane who was always unlikely to leave Tottenham for a Premier League rival this summer.

Ollie Watkins on Erik Ten Hag’s radar

According to The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell, England international Watkins is on a shortlist written up by Ten Hag which also includes Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, Benfica’s Goncalo Ramos, and young Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund.

The Old Trafford club has been put on red alert whilst Watkins only has only two years left on his contract at Villa, although the 27-year-old is reportedly in talks regarding a new deal. Since joining the Villains in 2020, Watkins has made it into double figures for goals in each of his first three Premier League campaigns.