Manchester United have endured a frustrating transfer window so far, with their lack of European football proving a serious stumbling block in efforts to sign top-tier talent.
Matheus Cunha has arrived and has been spotted during Tuesday’s first-team training session.
However, the Red Devils’ pursuit of Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has slowed down, sparking frustration from Mbeumo himself.
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Despite strong early interest, United missed out on Liam Delap, who chose Champions League football at Chelsea instead.
They then turned their attention to Viktor Gyokeres, another strongly linked target.
Only to see the Sporting striker close in on a move to Arsenal – another side with Champions League football next season.
Amid that disappointment, the club explored a move for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, with news circulating that United had stepped up their interest last week.
Now, according to the Daily Mail’s report, Watkins is also being considered by Newcastle United as they step up plans to sign a new striker.
With Anthony Elanga’s arrival imminent, Newcastle are shifting focus to the forward line, aware of how costly it was to go without Alexander Isak last season.
The Magpies were willing to pay over £50 million for Joao Pedro before he joined Chelsea.
Watkins is now one of the names under discussion.
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Newcastle are weighing up the risks of investing in players closer to 30, with Watkins turning 30 in December.
However, his proven Premier League track record is appealing.
Yoane Wissa of Brentford is another name in the frame.
While Dominic Calvert-Lewin is seen as a potential free agent option – the Englishman who has been linked to United, should the Red Devils need a last minute panic buy.
Newcastle’s concern remains depth for a campaign expected to reach 60 matches.
Watkins’ versatility and proven record in the Premier League could be an opportunity too difficult to not pursue.
Whether they can beat United to the England international remains to be seen, especially as United’s talks with Villa have so far been exploratory.
