Manchester United have made Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko their preferred targets as they continue their search for a new striker, sources have told ESPN.

United have explored a number of different options after missing out on Liam Delap, who opted to join Chelsea from Ipswich Town.

Following the completion of Bryan Mbeumo's move from Brentford, work to bring a new No. 9 to Old Trafford has stepped up.

Watkins and Sesko are considered the most viable names of the players left on the market after Hugo Ekitike joined Liverpool and Viktor Gyökeres signed for Arsenal.

Sources have told ESPN that there are concerns at United about the potential cost of deals for either Watkins or Sesko with the valuations of Aston Villa and RB Leipzig, respectively, considered to be prohibitive.

However, contact has been made with representatives of both players to assess exactly what finances would be involved. No decision has been made about whether to prioritize Watkins or Sesko.

One complication in any potential deal for Sesko is Newcastle United's interest.

United have turned to the 22-year-old Slovenia international amid fears that Alexander Isak has his heart set on a move to Liverpool.

Club bosses are hoping to boost their flexibility in the market by bringing in fees for Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia.

Marcus Rashford's loan move to Barcelona has already created some financial headroom.