Aston Villa striker wanted by Man Utd

Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has emerged as a prime target for Manchester United amid Joshua Zirkzee's desire to return to Serie A.

Zirkzee has failed to meet expectations during his two seasons in the Premier League and could be offloaded to an Italian outfit in the near future.

Juventus and Roma are long-term admirers of the Dutchman and it has emerged that the former are determined to bring him to Turin soon.

If a deal materialises, United are expected to make an approach for Watkins, who netted 21 goals for the Villans across all competitions last term.

The Englishman is seen as an ideal competitor to Benjamin Sesko upfront next season as United prepare for a return to Champions League football.

Watkins has been a key player for the Midlands outfit, but he is open to a new challenge with the club eyeing Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea to replace him upfront next season.

The 30-year-old could be permitted to leave for 40 million pounds.