Unai Emery has unearthed new Martial replacement option for Man Utd

With Anthony Martial finally expected to depart Manchester United this summer, it’s not unreasonable to suggest Erik ten Hag will be fishing for two attacking signings before the start of the 2023/24 season. It’s no secret that a marquee centre-forward – namely Harry Kane or Victor Osimhen – tops their wish-list but with the largely underwhelming Martial also heading for the exit door, another striker would be a welcome bonus if United wish to hunt down the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City.

Wout Weghorst’s long-term future at Old Trafford remains up in the air as United would have to negotiate a fee with Burnley and given he has found the net just twice in 16 appearances, there must be superior alternatives available.

While Martial has spent the majority of the season on the sidelines with injury, he does bring some attractive qualities to the table.

His pace, dribbling ability and movement provides Untied with a different option through the middle and if he is to depart, his qualities are worth replacing.

One player that has forced his way into the limelight through hard work and dedication this season is Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa. He may not set the world alight but his importance under Unai Emery cannot be questioned.

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Over time, Watkins has slowly been moulded into a central forward having previously operated from the flank and his numbers are now starting to do the talking.

Yes, there are huge improvements he can still make to his game but he is the kind of signing that would massively improve Manchester United’s squad depth in attack.

Unai Emery has made drastic changes to Watkins’ game and is now forcing the England international to stay as far up the field as possible. The tweaks have already translated into goals.

Watkins has now scored in sixth consecutive away matches for Aston Villa and is carrying the torch for Emery as the Spaniard targets a surprise European finish after replacing Steven Gerrard in October.

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It would be naive to suggest Watkins has what it takes to be United’s go-to No.9 but if they have the cash to invest in two attacking signings, he would tick multiple boxes for Ten Hag next season.

You also have to take into consideration that both Tottenham and Napoli are going to ask for in excess of £100m to sell Kane or Osimhen – meaning there are no guarantees United will be able to sign either player this summer.

And should they wish to continue with their current set-up including Weghorst, Watkins could be another great addition to Ten Hag’s ever-improving forward line despite their recent struggles.

Watkins would be a great fit for United’s front-foot attacking football as he leads and presses from the front. He is also homegrown which is only likely to boost his value, although it must be noted that Villa will have no desire to sell, whatsoever.

The 27-year-old does not have to be near the top of United’s summer shortlist but he is a name that is worthy of some consideration, particularly in a saturated market that is starved of standout options.

United need some quality in reserve and hungry players that are going to apply the pressure to their regular starters in order to maximise performance levels.

Martial has failed to do that during recent seasons and now United require better if they are to achieve their ambitions under Ten Hag moving forward.

Arsenal and City have mastered the full use of their squad and it’s driven their Premier League title bids this season with numerous players chipping in at different stages of the campaign. Now United must follow suit and Watkins would be a very credible addition to their ranks.

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