Aston Villa have told clubs — including Manchester United — that Ollie Watkins is not for sale, despite fresh rumours suggesting the England striker wants out.
According to Sky Sports (July 24), Villa have no intention of parting with the 29-year-old forward this summer. However, reports surfacing on July 25 claim Watkins has informed the club of his desire to explore a new challenge.
United, in particular, are monitoring the situation closely as Amorim looks to add a proven Premier League goalscorer to his squad.
Man United Watch Closely as Villa Stand Firm
While Manchester United haven’t yet made a formal offer, they are understood to be seriously tracking Watkins.
Villa, though, remain unmoved. Club sources insist Watkins remains central to Unai Emery’s plans after a 2024/25 campaign that saw him notch 16 league goals and fire the club into the Champions League.
“The message from Villa is clear: Watkins is not for sale,” Sky Sports reported on July 24.
Is Ollie Watkins Pushing for a Move?
Multiple reports on July 25 suggest the situation may be more fluid than Villa are letting on. Sources close to the player hint Watkins may be open to a new challenge — and is intrigued by the idea of joining a Champions League club with bigger title ambitions.
Watkins has not submitted a transfer request, but a private stance of openness to a move has been interpreted by some as the first sign of tension between player and club.
Ollie Watkins – Premier League Stats (2024/25)
| Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|
| 38 | 16 | 8 |
Analyst Verdict: A Deal to Watch Late in the Window?
Watkins signed a new long-term contract with Villa in 2023, but contracts don’t guarantee certainty in modern football — especially when Manchester United are involved.
If Villa’s stance softens or Watkins applies pressure, this is one saga that could evolve quickly in the final weeks of the window. United may yet test Villa’s resolve with a late bid, especially if Rasmus Højlund’s form remains inconsistent in pre-season.
Key Insights
- Villa insist Ollie Watkins is not for sale amid Man United interest
- Sky Sports (July 24) report the club’s firm stance
- Reports on July 25 suggest Watkins is open to leaving
- United monitoring situation as they assess striker options
- Watkins scored 21 Premier League goals in 2024/25
What’s Next for Watkins and Manchester United
Aston Villa continue to plan their season with Ollie Watkins at the centre of Unai Emery’s attack, and there’s no current indication that the club will entertain offers — regardless of outside interest.
Manchester United, however, are still weighing up their striker options and could revisit Watkins later in the window, especially if alternatives fall through. Internally, the club would prefer to settle their No. 9 situation before the Premier League campaign gains momentum.
Unless there’s a significant shift in Watkins’ stance or a formal offer that tests Villa’s resolve, this may remain a slow-burning situation rather than a headline-grabbing saga — at least for now.
Should Aston Villa hold firm — or cash in if Manchester United make a big offer?
Join the debate and share your thoughts below.
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 25 Jul 2025 09:51
Ollie Watkins is one of the best strikers in the league. he won't be cheap if he wants to leave and if Villa wants to sell, but how do you hold on a player whenever they want to leave?
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *