Rio Ferdinand has urged Manchester United to act fast and sign Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, insisting the 29-year-old striker offers the blend of Premier League experience and end product the Red Devils desperately need up front. With United still searching for a proven finisher to complement their youthful attacking core, Ferdinand believes Watkins is the perfect fit — even if it means sacrificing future resale value.
The former England international made the passionate pitch on his “Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE” YouTube channel this week, stressing that Watkins’ physicality, goal record, and leadership could make an immediate impact at Old Trafford. Watkins scored 17 goals and provided 14 assists in 54 appearances for Aston Villa across all competitions last season — a tally that helped push Villa into the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 1982.
Manchester United have already moved swiftly in the transfer market, completing deals for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo and Wolves’ Matheus Cunha. But with uncertainty around the consistency of Rasmus Højlund and newcomer Joshua Zirkzee, Ferdinand insists a seasoned striker like Watkins would provide the balance needed for a title push.
“The only knock is his age,” Ferdinand said. “At 29, there’s not going to be much resale value — but United have to stop thinking like a selling club. They need leaders, not just prospects. Watkins can lead the line now, and allow the younger lads to grow without pressure.”
Watkins’ versatility — operating as a central striker or drifting wide in Villa’s dynamic front three — is seen as a major plus for United’s evolving system. His stamina, pressing ability, and link-up play under Unai Emery last season earned him plaudits across Europe, with Arsenal and Chelsea also reportedly monitoring his situation.
Although Watkins signed a new long-term contract with Aston Villa in October 2023, his rising profile and ambitions for silverware could tempt him toward a club of Manchester United’s stature. However, Villa are unlikely to let him go cheaply, with his market value estimated north of £60 million.
Erik ten Hag is believed to be open to the idea of adding an experienced No.9 to complement his attacking project. With Premier League opening day approaching fast, the pressure is on the United hierarchy to back their manager with firepower that matches their ambition — and Ferdinand thinks the answer is right in front of them.
