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Man United open talks over Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko as contact made with representatives

Jamie Brown

Tue 29 July 2025 11:13, UK Updated Tue 29 July 2025 11:39, UK

TBR Football understands that Manchester United have held talks over Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko.

Ruben Amorim is keen to add to his attacking options this summer and a striker appears to be one of the priorities for the Red Devils.

Watkins, who’s seen as ‘perfect’ for United, has already held talks with the 13-time Premier League champions over a move.

Meanwhile, United are also eyeing Sesko’s situation at RB Leipzig, with Newcastle United also attempting to sign the 22-year-old.

Exclusive: Manchester United open talks over Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko deal

TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey can confirm that Ollie Watkins was spoken about during talks between Manchester United and Aston Villa last week.

The Red Devils held conversations with Villa about Emi Martinez and Alejandro Garnacho, who could very well end up at Villa Park this summer.

Garnacho is open to working with Unai Emery, and a move could materialise for the Argentine to make the trip to the Midlands club.

Speaking exclusively to TBR Football, Bailey revealed: “Ollie Watkins has options and Aston Villa are looking at their options too – there is a real chance that he could leave Villa Park this summer, and Man United like him a lot – he is seen as a very good fit.”

United have also had talks with Benjamin Sesko’s representatives in the last 48 hours as they assess his situation, as he is also the subject of interest from Newcastle United.

“Sesko is ongoing too – United, though, are working on this situation. Could it be Watkins or Sesko? United certainly believe so,” added Bailey.

At this stage, Sesko is open to joining Newcastle, but the Red Devils entering the race for the Slovenian international could potentially change his mind.

Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko are both great options for Man United

Watkins and Sesko are great options for United, having both enjoyed stellar league campaigns last term.

The Villa striker outscored Sesko last term with 16 Premier League goals, meanwhile, the 22-year-old netted on 13 occasions.

Ultimately, it will come down to what United would rather prioritise, proven Premier League experience or a player with huge potential.

Arsenal’s scouting department were excited by Sesko before their move for Viktor Gyokeres, with the feeling he could become the next Alexander Isak.

Although Amorim might well be keen to bring in a striker who he knows is more likely to hit the ground running, in Watkins.