Aston Villa ready to hijack Man Utd transfer amid Ollie Watkins exit update
Aston Villa have identified Randal Kolo Muani as a viable option to replace Ollie Watkins this summer.
Aston Villa made a slow start to the summer transfer window, but it seems as though things are finally moving in the West Midlands.
Muani has been a hot topic this summer after an impressive loan spell at Juventus. The Frenchman had struggled at PSG, but came to life upon arriving in Italy in January.
As a result, the striker has piqued the interest of several clubs this summer, including Villa, who might need to replace Watkins.
Villa ready to sign Muani if Watkins is sold
Watkins has been linked to a departure from Villa Park since the beginning of the summer.
The Englishman saw his game time decrease last season with the arrival of Marcus Rashford. While Villa did not retain Rashford after his loan, Watkins could still be inclined to leave, given his stellar 2023/24 campaign.
Speculation has been rife over who could replace Watkins if a departure becomes the main trend. After weeks of endless rumours, it seems Villa may have identified their man.
As reported by Sacha Tavolieri via X on Saturday (19 July), recent talks for Muani took place with Manchester United. However, Villa could be prepared to hijack the deal if Watkins departs.
| Player | Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Ollie Watkins | 2024/25 | Aston Villa | 54 | 17 | 14 |
| Randal Kolo Muani | 2024/25 | Juventus | 36 | 12 | 4 |
This would be a boost for Unai Emery’s side, who are looking to compete for all trophies and achieve UEFA Champions League qualification next season.
However, Newcastle United are also in the race for Muani, which complicates matters.
Muani could perform well in the Premier League
Muani has been unable to wash himself of the stain of Emi Martinez’s iconic save in the 2022 World Cup final. However, a move to Villa presents the opportunity to reinvent his image.
The 26-year-old could thrive in the Premier League if given the chance.
Muani is an attacker who performs best when given the chance to run into open space. While the league has its fair share of defensive hardships, its quality results in more space for forwards.
This means that forwards are faced with tougher opposition, but high-level teams are often eager to play attacking football.
As a result, there is more space to exploit, and both sides have several chances to score. Therefore, if Muani lands in the Premier League, it could turn out to be a worthwhile investment for all involved.
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