Manchester United set to propose surprise swap deal to Aston Villa

Manchester United is planning to bolster their attack this coming summer and is considering a surprise swap deal with Aston Villa: Marcus Rashford plus cash in exchange for Ollie Watkins — a forward previously targeted by Arsenal.

The 27-year-old Rashford spent the second half of the season on loan at Villa, where he managed to impress head coach Unai Emery.

The 29-year-old Watkins, who had temporarily lost his spot in the starting lineup, returned to the field against Newcastle and marked his comeback with a goal and an assist, contributing to a convincing 4-1 victory. This result strengthened Villa's position in the race for the top five.

• See also: Ollie Watkins scored in the first minute against Newcastle and equaled Aston Villa's historical scoring record

In the winter, Arsenal offered around £60 million for Watkins, but the club rejected the bid, opting to sell Jhon Durán instead. Interest in the striker remains, and according to the Daily Star, United's management is ready to include Rashford in the deal to entice Villa into negotiations.

Watkins has already scored 16 goals this season and became a hero for the England national team at Euro 2024, securing the winning goal in the semi-final against the Netherlands.

Despite having a contract running until 2028, speculation about Watkins' future continues. United, suffering from a lack of goals — with Højlund and Zirkzee having only 15 goals between them — is clearly poised to act aggressively in the transfer market.