Ratcliffe risks yet more Man United ridicule after Aston Villa approach
Aston Villa are looking to fend off approaches from their fellow Premier League teams this summer as they try to keep their best assets.
Unai Emery’s side have struggled to sign players compared to their fellow top-flight teams due to a risk of potentially breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules.
Liverpool have been the biggest spenders so far this summer, but Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Manchester United are looking to follow in their footsteps as they launch a potential attack on the Villans.
Their rivals have already been waiting in the wings to hear about whether Morgan Rogers could be lured away from Villa Park, with his attacking teammate now a target for Man United.
Manchester United make fresh approach for Ollie Watkins
Aston Villa are finally starting to make progress this summer, with the Villans now set to launch a bid for French defender Jaydee Canvot.
However, Emery may have to start looking over his shoulder with Premier League clubs looking to recruit star striker Ollie Watkins.
According to journalist Alex Crook on X (24 July), Man United have made fresh contact with Villa over the potential exit of Watkins.
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 2024/25 | Aston Villa | 54 | 17 | 14 |
There is reportedly nothing close between the two sides and there has been no bid, with the Red Devils needing to sell before buying.
It’s added that Emery’s side values the England international at £60million.
Watkins has arguably been Emery’s most influential player since the Spaniard joined Villa in October 2022, and the claret and blue side won’t want the striker to depart Villa Park.
The former Brentford man is the only recognisable senior number nine in the squad, and should Villa be forced to sell the forward, there will be no room for negotiation.
Emery won’t let Watkins leave this summer
With limited funds and struggles when it comes to incomings, Emery won’t risk letting Watkins leave.
The Villans would not just be leaving themselves bare upfront, but they would also be selling a valuable player to one of their rivals, who could come back to punish them.
The fact that United have not even bothered to make an approach yet is just simply embarrassing on Ratcliffe’s behalf as his handling of Man United continues to raise eyebrows.
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