Man Utd Must Secure “Monster” £75m Signing Instead of De Ligt! 💥 In a thrilling transfer twist, Man Utd are being urged to prioritize a colossal £75m deal over pursuing Matthijs De Ligt. This “monster” signing is expected to bring unparalleled power and skill to the squad, revolutionizing their defense. Fans are buzzing with excitement as this game-changing player promises to elevate United’s performance to new heights. Stay tuned for updates as this blockbuster transfer unfolds!
Manchester United endured a difficult season, marred by inconsistent performances and frequent setbacks, with Erik ten Hag often appearing despondent on the sidelines. Despite these struggles, the Red Devils’ victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final secured them a spot in the Europa League and marked their second trophy in two years, providing a positive conclusion to the 2023/24 campaign.
However, without significant changes this summer, Manchester United risks a challenging season ahead that could endanger Ten Hag’s tenure. The team needs reinforcements, particularly in central defense, to address their underlying issues.
Man Utd Eyeing Defensive Reinforcements
With Raphael Varane departing this summer, Manchester United urgently needs a top-tier center-back to bolster their defense. According to David Ornstein, INEOS is considering Bayern Munich’s Matthijs De Ligt as a potential signing. Although no formal contact has been made, De Ligt is seen as a viable option.
However, with Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez already in the squad, it’s unlikely that United would sign more than one high-profile defender. Prioritizing De Ligt could mean missing out on Jarrad Branthwaite.
De Ligt’s Career at Bayern
De Ligt, once a teenage sensation, played a crucial role in Ajax’s remarkable Champions League run in 2018/19, captaining the team to the semi-finals. After transferring to Juventus for £68m, he moved to Bayern Munich in 2022 for the same fee. While he had a strong 2022/23 season, injuries limited him to just 16 Bundesliga starts last season. Nevertheless, De Ligt’s talent is undeniable; he ranks highly among central defenders in goals, progressive passes, and pass completion.
Despite his setbacks, the 24-year-old completed 94% of his passes and won 59% of his duels last season. Scout Jacek Kulig has previously hailed De Ligt as a “generational talent,” making him an attractive prospect for Ten Hag, who managed him at Ajax.
The Case for Signing Jarrad Branthwaite
Signing Branthwaite won’t come cheap. Manchester United’s £35m offer for the England international was rejected by Everton, who reportedly seek around £75m. Branthwaite had an impressive season with Everton, returning from a loan at PSV Eindhoven with enhanced defensive skills. Described as a “physical beast” by analyst Ben Mattinson, Branthwaite excelled alongside James Tarkowski, keeping 12 clean sheets in 35 matches.
Branthwaite averaged 5.2 ball recoveries, 1.9 tackles, and 4.5 clearances per game, winning 68% of his duels. When comparing Branthwaite’s 2023/24 metrics to De Ligt’s best season, it’s clear that Branthwaite offers superior defensive strength.
Despite playing in a counter-attacking team, Branthwaite’s ball-playing numbers would likely improve at United. Even if not as naturally gifted in passing, he remains one of the most robust defenders, ranking highly in tackles, interceptions, clearances, and aerial duels.
With Varane’s departure, Manchester United needs a defender like Branthwaite to strengthen their backline and complement Lisandro Martinez’s dynamic play. The £35k-per-week Evertonian would be an ideal addition, with his defensive prowess providing the foundation for United to challenge for a top-four spot in the Premier League and pursue further success under Ten Hag.
