I will join Man United on one condition – Transfer journalist confirms Man United made surprise transfer decision in 2023 for 27-goals striker

I will join Man United on one condition – Transfer journalist confirms Man United made surprise transfer decision in 2023 for 27-goals striker

According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United had the choice to sign Ollie Watkins, a striker for Aston Villa, and other established forwards in the summer of 2023, but they chose to prioritize Rasmus Hojlund.

Romano verified the rumors that Man Utd turned down the opportunity to sign Watkins in an exclusive interview with CaughtOffside for the most recent edition of his Daily Briefing column.

The Italian writer also acknowledged that he believes it was probably not the greatest move.

Romano stated that Hojlund should have been allowed more time to grow at Old Trafford despite his great regard for the Denmark international and his belief that Watkins, an experienced striker, would have been a better option to partner with him.

Watkins has been superb for Villa, so it’s easy to imagine him having a big impact for a big club like United as well, with many fans likely to be frustrated that the Red Devils decided to go in a different direction.

Discussing this saga, Romano said: “I’ve also been asked about a story involving United and Ollie Watkins in 2023, as it’s been claimed that they decided not to sign the Aston Villa striker, focusing instead on Ramus Hojlund.

“My information is that they had multiple options on the table, not only Watkins, but they consider Hojlund a huge talent for the future with big potential, so their number one choice in 2023 was always Hojlund.

“Was it the right decision? Personally I would not criticise Hojlund – he needs time but he’s talented and a very good player, though it’s probably true that an experienced striker next to him would have helped United.”

United fans will hope Hojlund can still come good, but it was a big gamble to put this much faith, or perhaps pressure, on a relatively inexperienced player, so in future it might be worth pairing a young attacker like this with a more experienced partner, just so there’s someone to rotate with and learn from