Manchester United Weigh Up Šeško and Watkins in Crucial Striker Hunt
As the summer transfer window heats up, Manchester United are ramping up efforts to reinforce their forward line, with both Benjamin Šeško and Ollie Watkins emerging as prime targets. The club is eager to add another prolific striker to complement Rasmus Højlund, who has yet to fully establish himself as a consistent threat in front of goal.
Why Šeško and Watkins? Two Different Profiles, One Key Objective
United’s transfer strategy is now centered around two distinctly different profiles. Benjamin Šeško, the towering Slovenian forward currently at RB Leipzig, has long been admired by Old Trafford scouts for his blend of athleticism, pace, and lethal finishing. Despite recently penning a new deal with Leipzig, reports suggest a transfer fee in the region of £63–75 million could secure his services. Šeško is seen as a long-term investment — a striker with sky-high potential who could lead the line for years to come.
Ollie Watkins, meanwhile, presents a more immediate solution. The Aston Villa frontman was instrumental in firing his side to a Champions League spot last season, finishing with 16 goals and 8 assists. His Premier League pedigree, relentless pressing, and intelligent movement make him a ready-made asset — one that could seamlessly slot into manager Rúben Amorim’s high-intensity system.
Financial and Strategic Dilemmas
But while both strikers appeal in their own right, United’s decision-makers are grappling with financial and strategic trade-offs. Watkins, though proven, is approaching 30 and would command a hefty fee of £60 million. That figure has prompted internal concerns about his resale value and long-term fit within a club that is now trying to adopt a more sustainable transfer model. Suggestions of a player-plus-cash deal involving Marcus Rashford were quickly ruled out, with Villa showing little interest.
Šeško, on the other hand, represents a younger, high-upside option — one that would align with United’s rebuilding philosophy. But his high release clause and Leipzig’s firm negotiating stance mean any move would require either significant outlay or successful player sales to fund the deal. Still, with Arsenal focused on signing Viktor Gyökeres instead, United may find themselves in pole position if they act quickly.
The Clock Is Ticking
Time, however, is against United. Pre-season matches are already underway, and Amorim is pushing the board for a decision. He wants a new striker integrated into the squad well before the season begins to ensure tactical cohesion and chemistry.
Both Šeško and Watkins offer solutions — but very different ones. Watkins is the safer bet: experienced, Premier League-proven, and ready to deliver immediately. Šeško is a gamble, albeit one with potentially massive returns.
Fan Debate: Proven Track Record or Future Star?
The fanbase and pundits are split. Some want Watkins, arguing his experience and consistency make him ideal for short-term results. Others are intrigued by Šeško’s potential to become a world-class striker and fear Watkins could block Højlund’s development by taking away vital minutes.
Ultimately, United are walking a fine line between present needs and future ambitions. A move is coming — the only question now is whether the club chooses short-term stability or long-term growth.