Manchester United is on the verge of making a sensational double swoop! The Red Devils are eyeing not one, but two top-notch defenders: Juventus star Matthijs de Ligt and Everton’s rising talent Jarrad Branthwaite. This dynamic duo could bolster United’s defense, adding a blend of experience and youthful energy. De Ligt, known for his commanding presence and leadership, alongside Branthwaite’s promising potential, could transform United’s backline into an impenetrable fortress. Stay tuned for more updates!
Amid their search for a replacement for Raphael Varane, Manchester United remain keen on Everton and England defender Jarrad Branthwaite. Despite the potential arrival of Matthijs de Ligt, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has suggested that Erik ten Hag and his team might be targeting two new centre-backs.
Losing Varane is far from ideal for United. He is an experienced and dependable box defender, making the acquisition of a new centre-back a top priority this summer, alongside signing a central midfielder and a striker, according to The Athletic.
The depth of United’s defensive issues was starkly highlighted last season, with significant playing time given to Jonny Evans. Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, and Victor Lindelof all faced injury problems, leaving Ten Hag with limited options.
In his Daily Briefing, Romano emphasized that despite the buzz around de Ligt, Branthwaite remains a prime target. The Carlisle-born defender is the only player for whom United have made a formal offer so far.
United’s £35 million plus add-ons bid for Branthwaite was rejected by Everton. However, Romano noted that this setback has not diminished their interest. There remains a substantial gap between the clubs’ valuations of the player.
Everton currently hold out for £65-70 million for Branthwaite, valuing his age, Premier League experience, and talent. This price is currently beyond United’s budget. However, Romano hinted that if the asking price drops, United are ready to make another move.
Interestingly, Romano also revealed that United might bolster their defensive lineup with two signings this summer. Their interest in de Ligt, who is open to a move to Old Trafford, is growing.
Branthwaite could be a great fit for United. Tall, skilled with the ball, and familiar with the Premier League, the 2002-born defender had an impressive breakthrough season at Everton, helping them avoid relegation.
On the offensive front, Ten Hag and his team are also eager to bring in a new striker to lessen the goal-scoring burden on Rasmus Hojlund. Hojlund scored 16 goals in all competitions in his debut season at Old Trafford, but the club is keen to add more attacking options as they aim for Champions League qualification in 2024/25.
Manchester United are reportedly in advanced negotiations with the representatives of Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee, aiming for a deal around £40 million, according to journalist Ben Jacobs in an exclusive for GIVEMESPORT.
Having overtaken AC Milan in the pursuit of the Dutch striker, Zirkzee’s tally of 11 goals for Bologna, which helped them secure Champions League football, has drawn significant interest from United.
