Aston Villa have made an enquiry over Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee as Unai Emery’s search for potential Ollie Watkins replacements continues to expand.
Villa have asked about the conditions required to sign the Netherlands international, according to Fabrizio Romano, although talks have not yet advanced into negotiations.
The approach comes with Watkins’ future increasingly uncertain after Al-Hilal had a £45million offer rejected and the striker made clear that he wants to complete a move to Saudi Arabia.
Romano’s latest information suggests Villa are making sure they have more than one replacement route available.
Aston Villa make Joshua Zirkzee enquiry
At this stage, the distinction is important.
Villa have not submitted an offer and are not reported to be negotiating with Manchester United. Their contact has instead been designed to establish what type of deal United would consider.
Romano had already revealed earlier this week that several clubs were making enquiries for Zirkzee and attempting to understand United’s position.
He explained that a loan containing either an option or obligation to buy could potentially create movement if United decide to sanction his departure.
Zirkzee therefore appears to be an alternative rather than Villa’s first choice.
Nicolas Jackson has previously emerged as Unai Emery’s preferred striker target, with the Villa head coach already familiar with the Chelsea forward from their time together at Villarreal.
Watkins uncertainty forces Aston Villa to prepare alternatives
Villa cannot afford to wait until Watkins leaves before assessing the striker market.
Read Aston Villa reported on Friday that Villa rejected an improved £45million Al-Hilal bid, with the England international pushing for the transfer.
Another Saudi offer could therefore force Villa into a quick decision.
Zirkzee would provide a different profile to Jackson.
Manchester United describe the 25-year-old as comfortable operating as either a No.9 or No.10, with the Dutchman possessing the ability to drop away from the forward line and become involved in possession.
He joined United from Bologna in July 2024 after being named in Serie A’s Team of the Year.
Villa’s enquiry does not yet make him a leading target.
It does, however, demonstrate that Emery’s recruitment team are preparing multiple routes should the Watkins situation finally result in a departure.
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