Former Manchester United player Paul Parker has urged the Old Trafford-based club to sign the services of England international forward Ollie Watkins as Rasmus Hojlund’s replacement, ahead of the new season. The Danish striker failed to deliver for Manchester United in the 2024-25 Premier League season as he could only score four goals in 32 matches.

On the other hand, Watkins scored 16 goals and provided eight assists for Aston Villa in the previous season and played a key role in helping the club finish at sixth place in the standings.

Paul Parker said in an interview with GOAL, “I’d have to say yes. He’s honest, he’s a workaholic, and I’ve found it strange how players are playing in front of him at Aston Villa. I’m a fan of Ollie Watkins, people will talk about his age, but he’s someone who is willing to run the line, someone who will try and turn bad into a good and can score goals. He’s very strong in the air as well and he can lead the line, which is a massive plus for Man Utd because they never had that last season – a blind man would have done better.”

Meanwhile, Hojlund made a move from Atalanta in 2023 for £72 million. According to Fabrizio Romano, Rasmus Højlund doesn’t want to leave Manchester United this summer, his desire is to stay at the club.

The only possibility for sale is in case United decides to advance in talks and proceed with his exit. Inter Milan were keen on the Dane striker for weeks but that deal is now on stand-by.

Meanwhile, Manchester United had finished in 15th place in the last season, and Ruben Amorim’s team will be determined to come back stronger in the upcoming edition.