Manchester United transfer news: Bryan Mbeumo heaps praise on summer target ahead of potential bid

Bryan Mbeumo has talked Manchester United's alleged interest in signing Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins.

In recent weeks, Mbeumo has joined Matheus Cunha in significantly strengthening Ruben Amorim's attack ahead of the new Premier League season.

However, there remains a desire to sign a new number nine with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee having failed to live up to their respective price-tags.

Recent reports have claimed that Watkins has emerged as United's number one target for that position and they may attempt to negotiate a deal with Villa.

As it stands, the two clubs appear far apart with regards to valuation, but Mbeumo - a former teammate of Watkins - hopes that United's hierarchy continue with their efforts.

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Man United newboy Mbeumo praises Watkins

The pair spent one season playing alongside each other in the 2019-20 Championship, scoring 40 second-tier goals between them as Brentford earned promotion to the Premier League.

As quoted by The Mirror, Mbeumo has described the England international as a "complete" player and indicated that he would like to play alongside him again.

Mbeumo said: "I think he's really complete. He's like a complete striker. He can do a lot of things.

"He can drop with the set or go in behind and I think this is really good for me or for a winger, because you can use his space to fit in there. And he can combine as well. So I think it's really good."

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What do United need to happen to sign Watkins?

As it stands, there is said to be a £20m stand-off between valuations. United are allegedly keen to sign Watkins for £40m when Villa, justifiably, want in the region of £60m.

Watkins having three years left on his contract does not help United's cause, but the forward turning 30 in December does.

United could improve their offers if the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Antony are sold or loaned out with buy obligations in due course.

Jadon Sancho is also in line to leave Old Trafford and United may a substantial saving on their outgoings in the process.

Meanwhile, Villa would also need to have a like-for-like replacement lined up. They are lacking centre-forwards and would need to ensure that they are not left chasing deals that are not realistic if they give the green light to a Watkins sale.