BREAKING NEWS: Coming live from Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United walks away from Jarrad Branthwaite as full focus now on Barcelona star. According to reports, Manchester United have reportedly walked away from a deal to sign Jarrad Branthwaite as sir Jim and management turn all attention to Barcelona star as Everton are not willing to budge on their asking price. He said ” I can’t pay that huge of amount for just one player that spending spree United died immediately I came here they are better player we can get for a reasonable amount”. Man Utd make CRUCIAL decision over Branthwaite transfer.
Manchester United are reportedly prepared to abandon their pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite and explore other transfer options if Everton remain firm on their asking price. United have made two bids for the 21-year-old, the most recent being around £43 million (€50m), but Everton are demanding £70 million (€83m).
According to ESPN, United have informed Everton that they cannot afford to spend such a large sum on a single player this summer. The club needs to strengthen multiple areas with a limited budget. United are looking to add two defenders, as well as a striker and a midfielder, especially if players like Casemiro depart. Consequently, Erik ten Hag’s side will likely seek cheaper alternatives to Branthwaite unless Everton reduces their demands.
United’s options at center-back appear to be narrowing. They have already missed out on Tosin Adarabioyo, who was available on a free transfer, and UEFA blocked a move for Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo due to connections with United shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Other potential targets include Marc Guehi, Matthijs de Ligt, and Leny Yoro, but these players may not be significantly cheaper or more feasible alternatives to Branthwaite.
Who Are United’s Transfer Targets in Defense?
United aim to sign at least one center-back following Raphael Varane’s departure at the end of his contract. Additional defenders might be needed if players like Harry Maguire are sold. An approach for Yoro has already been made, but the Lille wonderkid is reportedly holding out for Real Madrid, with Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool also showing interest.
Guehi’s profile has risen after becoming a starter for England at Euro 2024, but Crystal Palace are likely to demand over €70 million for the 23-year-old due to his increased value. De Ligt has been a long-term target for Ten Hag and could be the most attainable option, with Bayern Munich open to selling the Dutchman this summer.
Despite these alternatives, United remain focused on Branthwaite, who has already agreed personal terms for a move to Old Trafford. The club hopes he will push for a transfer and potentially lower Everton’s asking price. Real Madrid have also agreed on personal terms with Yoro, but the Champions League winners have hesitated to make a formal bid due to Lille’s asking price of over €50 million.
United’s efforts to strengthen their squad involve a delicate balance of budget constraints and the need to fill multiple positions. The coming weeks will be crucial as they navigate these challenges and seek to secure key signings for the upcoming season.
