MANCHESTER UNITED are considering a sensational move for Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins ahead of the summer transfer window, reports suggest.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is looking to shake things up in a big way at Old Trafford after his INEOS team gained control of sporting operations.
According to talkSPORT's Alex Crook, Ratcliffe may kick his reign off with an "audacious" bid for Watkins, 28, whom club chiefs see as the perfect candidate to spearhead the team's attack for years to come.
However, convincing Unai Emery's side of offloading their most prolific player will prove to be very difficult as they will demand a hefty fee and are under no pressure of selling as his contract runs until 2028.
The striker has been enjoying a stunning campaign with Villa as he has amassed a staggering total of 27 goals and 13 assists in 52 appearances.
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The England international has the chance to make history as the Villans' all-time top goalscorer in a single Premier League campaign.
So far this term, Watkins has netted a joint-highest return of 19 goals - a record he shares with Christian Benteke.
And the ex-Brentford star will have the chance to best Benteke's achievement in the final game of the season at Crystal Palace on Sunday.
As it stands, the forward has contributed as many goals as Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland thanks to his 19 assists in the English top flight.
That of course has turned the centre-forward into a top contender to make England's Euro 2024 squad, especially after manager Gareth Southgate learned he can pick up to 26 players.
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United will be needing a centre-forward regardless as Anthony Martial is set to leave once his contract runs out.
Martial will be part of a major transfer exit overhaul with Ratcliffe looking to turn United's fortunes around in his first transfer window in charge.
Raphael Varane will also run down his contract and move on during the summer.
They are set to be joined by Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Casemiro, Antony and Christian Eriksen.
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