Manchester United have made initial contact over moves for two England international strikers, as their pursuit of a new forward continues, according to reports.
The Red Devils are in the market for a number of new signings this summer after a disastrous last season.
Centre-forward is one position that needs strengthening after seriously underwhelming campaigns from Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.
Manchester United are continuing to pursue Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo but have seen two bids rejected by the Bees.
A second bid of £60m was turned down by Brentford, but talks continue, with the player keen on the switch to Old Trafford.
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The recruitment department are keeping their options open, though, and are eyeing up big name moves elsewhere.
The Athletic report that Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins is on the Red Devils’ shortlist, with contact made between the club over the possibility of a deal.
There has been little progress beyond that, with discussions being held around the possibility of Marcus Rashford staying at Villa permanently beyond his loan spell, but that has not happened.
The report states that Watkins would only be a realistic target for Manchester United if Hojlund is to leave this summer.
Despite his unconvincing stint in the Premier League so far, the former Atalanta striker still has admirers in Italy, with Inter Milan interested in bringing him back to Serie A.
Also reported to be on Manchester United’s list of targets is Ivan Toney, with Spanish publication Fichajes reporting that his representatives have been contacted over a potential return to the Premier League.
The report suggests Toney would be keen on the move to Old Trafford from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli after one season with his current club.
The 29-year-old scored 30 goals in 44 games last season as Al-Ahli won the AFC Champions League, but could be offered the chance to head back to England.
The former Brentford man has been valued at £30-£35m, despite only moving to Saudi Arabia last year for around £40m on a contract until 2028.
These possible incomings will depend on the success of the Mbeumo chase and the future of Hojlund, which remains in doubt.
The Athletic’s report states that the Red Devils would have to sell him for over £45m to count him as profit on PSR rules, which could prove very difficult to do.
Speaking earlier this month, Hojlund believed he will still be a United player come next season, telling Norwegian outlet Ekstra Bladet: ‘I have a contract until 2030, so I expect to play for Manchester United.
‘I’m looking forward to going on a summer vacation, and then I’m fully dedicated to the project that’s underway.’
