Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Manchester United reportedly want to sign Ollie Watkins(Image: Neville Williams/Aston Villa FC)

Jurgen Klopp and Steven Gerrard both think Manchester United would be signing a top-quality player if they could pull off a mega swap deal for Ollie Watkins.

United are claimed to be considering a stunning swap deal for Watkins, which would see Marcus Rashford’s move to Aston Villa become permanent.

Rashford has been on loan at Villa Park since January, notching four assists and two goals in 14 games after being frozen out by Ruben Amorim at his parent club, United.



But Watkins, who has 16 goals and 13 assists in 50 games this season, is still highly rated by various rival clubs, as well as some big names in English football.

Liverpool icons - former manager Klopp and legendary Gerrard - have spoken glowingly about him in the past, indirectly giving United the green light to sign him.

Gerrard worked with Watkins during his year-long stint in charge of Villa and paid him the ultimate sign of respect by comparing him to one of the best Liverpool strikers this century.

"I picture Ollie Watkins at his best when he's really front-footed, aggressive with that bit between his teeth," said Gerrard.

Article continues below

"He is a lovely player on the eye with the goals he scores and his technical ability.

With him, that's not different than it is to others."

But instead of Liverpool approaching Villa to buy Watkins, he was strongly linked with another top Premier League club, Arsenal, in January.

Rather than let it hinder you, you have to use that anger and let it spur you on to prove the manager different."

One thing that could go against United should they continue to pursue Watkins is the fact that Villa remain in the hunt for a Champions League spot next season and look guaranteed to secure European football of some flavour.

United, on the other hand, will have to win the Europa League to secure a spot in Europe next season, which could determine whether or not they land some of their priority targets in the summer.

Join our new MAN UTD WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Manchester United content from Mirror Football.
For more news relating to Arsenal, visit our sister site AFC Latest Live.