Manchester United legend brutally bats away £40m Aston Villa transfer suggestion

Manchester United legend Dimitar Berbatov believes the Red Devils should look elsewhere amid reports Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins is of interest for a potential summer transfer.

The Bulgarian, who was a prolific scorer himself, recognises Watkins’ quality but reckons United should aim bigger and higher in order to compete for the Premier League title.

It was reported last week by a reputable outlet,The Athletic, that Villa’s number 11 is on the shortlist as he “has been watched by United” over recent campaigns.

Watkins, although often a misser of big chances, has been a consistent force in the Premier League. To be precise, the 27-year-old has netted 14, 11 and 15 goals in his last three seasons.

But he’s not what Man Utd should be looking for, claims Berbatov. “Any player that scored 15 goals in a Premier League season is going to make other clubs take notice, of course.

“However, I want Manchester United to sign a striker with a more proven track record at the highest level, somebody like Harry Kane that scores around 25 goals every season,” Berbatov told Betfred.

“You need a player with this kind of track record, because when the big games come, you know you have a striker that can score goals.

“If you can’t sign a player that has the full package, then of course you’re going to look at other players, but you should only look to sign a player that’s capable of playing in Erik ten Hag’s system.

“Manchester United need to challenge for the Premier League title next season and do much better in the Champions League than they did last time,” Berbatov continued.

Regardless of what the Red Devils legend says, however, Watkins is of genuine interest to United. As are Kane, Victor Osimhen and Rasmus Hojlund, among others.