Manchester United are reportedly preparing to propose a sensational swap deal that would see Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins make the move to Old Trafford, with Marcus Rashford heading in the opposite direction to join Unai Emery’s side. This potential exchange is part of United’s broader transfer strategy as they aim to rebuild and strengthen their attack.
According to reports from The Daily Star, United are willing to include Rashford in the deal in order to secure the services of Watkins, who has impressed with his performances for Villa. The move could be mutually beneficial for both clubs, as Villa are believed to be interested in retaining Rashford’s services permanently, especially after his recent resurgence while on loan there.
Watkins, 28, has been one of the most consistent forwards in the Premier League this season, catching the eye of several top clubs, including Arsenal. However, it’s Manchester United who appear the most serious in their pursuit of the England international, seeing him as a long-term solution to their forward-line problems.
United have struggled for attacking consistency over the past couple of seasons, with Rashford’s form dipping considerably after a strong 2022-23 campaign. Though he’s still seen as a valuable asset, the club’s management now seems willing to use him as leverage to acquire a player who fits their new vision more closely.
Rashford, 27, has been with Manchester United since his youth days and rose through the academy ranks to become a first-team regular. While he once looked destined to become one of the club’s all-time greats, his recent inconsistency, coupled with reported dressing-room frustrations and fitness issues, has made his future at Old Trafford increasingly uncertain.
Newly appointed United manager Ruben Amorim is believed to be at the center of this ambitious restructuring. The Portuguese coach, who joined from Sporting CP, has identified Watkins as an ideal forward to suit his high-pressing, mobile attacking system. Watkins’ ability to play both centrally and out wide adds versatility to Amorim’s attacking plans.
But the Watkins-Rashford swap isn’t the only storyline unfolding in United’s transfer ambitions. The club is also keen on bringing in Crystal Palace’s attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze. According to The Sun, Amorim views Eze as a dynamic playmaker who could provide the creative spark the current squad lacks.
Eze, 26, has become one of the standout players in the Premier League over the past two seasons. His ability to operate between the lines, create chances, and contribute goals makes him a perfect fit for Amorim’s preferred system. However, acquiring Eze won’t be straightforward, as Palace are reportedly looking for offers in the region of £50 million.
The attacking midfielder signed a contract extension in 2022 that runs through 2026, with an option for an additional year, giving Palace strong negotiating power. Still, the London club is said to be open to discussions, particularly if multiple clubs enter the race.
Aston Villa, who could lose Rashford back to United if the swap doesn’t materialize, are also monitoring Eze. If they fail to keep the England winger, they may shift their attention to signing the Palace star as an alternative attacking reinforcement.
Manchester United’s interest in Watkins and Eze suggests a clear shift in recruitment strategy under Amorim. Rather than pursuing marquee signings or aging stars, the club seems to be targeting Premier League-proven talent with strong work rates and versatility. This aligns with Amorim’s emphasis on team cohesion, energy, and tactical flexibility.
The potential swap involving Rashford and Watkins also raises questions about United’s valuation of Rashford. While the club previously placed a £40 million tag on him, recent developments imply they are more interested in using him as a bargaining chip than holding out for cash alone.
For Aston Villa, the opportunity to keep Rashford could prove tempting. Despite his struggles at United, the England international has shown flashes of brilliance during his time at Villa, and a permanent move could reignite his career. Emery is reportedly open to making Rashford a central figure in his squad if he becomes available full-time.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s interest in Watkins remains active. The Gunners are believed to be monitoring the striker’s situation closely, though they have yet to make a formal move. Watkins’ pace, finishing ability, and intelligence on the ball would certainly fit well in Mikel Arteta’s setup. However, United’s willingness to offer a direct player exchange gives them a potential edge in negotiations.
Amid all the transfer speculation, Amorim continues to assess his current squad. Reports suggest that United could also target young Southampton prospect Tyler Dibling if they win the UEFA Europa League. The teenage midfielder is highly rated and has been attracting attention from top Premier League sides.
This mix of established Premier League talent and promising youth signals a comprehensive overhaul under Amorim’s leadership. The manager is keen on balancing experience with emerging talent to lay the foundation for long-term success.
In addition, Manchester United are expected to part ways with several fringe players in the upcoming transfer window. The club aims to raise funds and reduce the wage bill to accommodate their new targets, including Watkins and Eze. Names like Anthony Martial, Donny van de Beek, and Jadon Sancho are all reportedly on the list of possible departures.
Eze’s potential arrival could fill the creative void left by Bruno Fernandes, should the Portuguese midfielder depart in the near future. Although there have been no formal talks about Fernandes leaving, interest from Saudi Arabian clubs has been reported in the past, and United are preparing for all possible scenarios.
As things stand, the next few weeks promise to be crucial in shaping Manchester United’s summer transfer window. A swap involving Watkins and Rashford could be the first major domino to fall, setting the tone for further arrivals and exits at Old Trafford.
Both United and Villa are expected to hold discussions soon, with the swap deal likely to gain momentum once the current Premier League season concludes. Whether the two clubs can come to an agreement remains to be seen, but the mutual interest in the players involved provides a solid foundation for negotiations.
With competition heating up for Eberechi Eze as well, Manchester United will need to act quickly and decisively if they want to stay ahead of the pack. Ruben Amorim’s vision for the club is becoming clearer, and the coming months could mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Red Devils.
