How Much Ollie Watkins Is Earning at Aston Villa as Man United Weigh Up Move for £60m Star..

As the summer transfer window heats up, Manchester United have set their sights on Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, with reports suggesting the England international could be valued at around £60 million. But what would it take to lure the prolific forward away from Villa Park? A key part of the equation is his current salary and contract situation with Aston Villa — and it’s no small figure.

Ollie Watkins is currently earning a reported £130,000 per week at Aston Villa, placing him among the club’s top earners. This translates to an annual salary of around £6.76 million. The striker signed a new long-term deal with Villa in October 2023, which ties him to the club until June 2028. This contract extension followed a stellar 2022/23 campaign, during which Watkins scored 19 Premier League goals and added 13 assists — earning him the Premier League Playmaker of the Season award.

This pay rise reflects Watkins’ growing importance to Unai Emery’s side and his status as one of the most consistent forwards in English football. Since arriving at Villa from Brentford in 2020 for £28 million, Watkins has not only led the line with skill and determination but has also become a key figure in Villa’s push for Champions League football.

Manchester United, on the hunt for a proven goalscorer to partner or rotate with Rasmus Højlund, have reportedly been monitoring Watkins’ situation. With Marcus Rashford’s future uncertain and United’s attack underwhelming in the 2024/25 season, manager Erik ten Hag is expected to strengthen his forward line.

Though United are also said to be looking at other options — including Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo — Watkins has emerged as a serious candidate due to his Premier League experience, consistent output, and pressing ability, which fits Ten Hag’s tactical blueprint.

The main hurdle? Watkins’ price tag and wages. With Aston Villa valuing the striker at £60 million, United would have to decide whether the 29-year-old represents value compared to younger or foreign alternatives. Additionally, any potential move would likely require a salary offer that either matches or exceeds his current £130,000-a-week deal.

From a financial standpoint, Watkins is a luxury player for Villa but still a worthwhile asset. Should the club decide to cash in — possibly to balance books or reinvest in other areas — they would likely aim to secure a fee in the £50–60 million range. Given Watkins’ contract runs until 2028, Villa are under no pressure to sell, meaning any deal will need to heavily favour them financially.

For Manchester United, the decision to pursue Watkins will depend on:

• Whether they can offload fringe players to make space financially.

• Their readiness to pay top-tier wages for a striker nearing 30.

• Their long-term plan for Højlund and whether Watkins would serve as a starter or high-level backup.

Ollie Watkins remains one of the Premier League’s most consistent and well-rounded forwards. With Aston Villa enjoying a period of resurgence under Unai Emery and securing Champions League qualification, it would take a significant offer — both in terms of transfer fee and personal terms — for Watkins to consider leaving.

Manchester United’s interest highlights Watkins’ growing status, but any potential transfer will depend on whether United are willing to pay big for a player at the peak of his powers — and whether Villa are ready to let one of their most valuable stars depart.