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Roy Keane believes Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins could play for Man Utd

Roy Keane believes Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins has the ability to play for one of the top Premier League teams such as Manchester United.

The England international has been a revelation for Villa this season, scoring 21 goals and providing 10 assists from 39 games across all competitions.

16 of his goals have come in the English top-flight. He has helped the Midlands outfit to stay in contention for a top four finish to the campaign.

Speaking on Sky Sports yesterday, Keane said that Villa are a big club, but Watkins is capable of making the next step to play for United, Liverpool or Manchester City.

He said: “I think he could play for one of the top teams. I know Aston Villa are a big club, but I mean the likes of Man United, Liverpool, and obviously Man City. He is capable of doing it, I think.”

Watkins have been in fantastic form for Unai Emery’s side this term. He has been a key reason behind Villa being fourth in the league with 10 games to play.

The £51 million-rated star only signed a new contract in October last year and it would come as a huge surprise if he were to leave Villa Park this summer.

Even if Villa were to miss out on Champions League football, their hierarchy are unlikely to contemplate selling him unless they receive a huge transfer bid.

Meanwhile, United are on the look out for a new striker with Anthony Martial likely to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the current season.

In our view, the onus could be on landing a striker to provide cover for Rasmus Hojlund rather than someone, who could demand regular playing time.

This would put United out of the race for Watkins. We believe the club could return for Serhou Guirassy after missing out on his signature earlier this year.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com