Man Utd transfer target Ollie Watkins has already named dream next club

Manchester United have reportedly identified Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as a summer transfer target, with Ruben Amorim looking to complete his attacking overhaul. However, Watkins has previously publicly made it known that he dreams of playing for one of United's Premier League rivals.

According to The Athletic, the 29-year-old features on Ruben Amorim's striker shortlist if player sales generate enough funds to unlock a move. Rasmus Hojlund may also have to depart Old Trafford to clear space for a new striker amid struggles to offload deadwood so far this summer.

United are following a Premier League-proven recruitment strategy as they search for players who can make an instant impact next season.

Matheus Cunha has joined from Wolves in a £62.5million deal, while negotiations are ongoing for Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo.

Watkins could follow the duo through the arrivals suite, but he has already made it known that he would rather play elsewhere among the Premier League's heavyweights.

In 2020, the then-Brentford striker admitted that he dreamt of playing for Arsenal as he eyed the next step in his career.

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"That's the dream, to play for Arsenal one day. But, you know, it's a long shot," he told Sports Gazette at the London Football Awards.

Later that year, Watkins completed a £33m switch to Villa, where he has plundered 129 goal contributions in 223 appearances.

On another occasion, the England international admitted: "I am an Arsenal fan, so Thierry Henry was my [idol]. He was unbelievable to watch. He was the idol growing up, really."

Watkins came close to realising his dream in January when Arsenal made a move for his signature, submitting an offer worth £40m.

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However, Villa rebuffed the approach and demanded £60m, which saw the Gunners' interest fade and Mikel Arteta's attack remain thin.

Arteta is still pursuing a new striker, but there has been little suggestion that Watkins is at the forefront of his thinking in the current market.

Arsenal are prioritising a pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, while Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres is also near the top of their shortlist.

Should the Emirates Stadium outfit fail to sign both, Watkins could return to the agenda if Villa are willing to lower their £60m demand.