Sport nationManchester United’s top priority this summer is to sign a top central defender, but their failed pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite has left the England and Everton star frustrated. United had a £35million plus add-ons bid rejected, with the Toffees demanding a higher fee of £70m. This has led the Red Devils to shift their focus towards signing Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt, who is reportedly available for a more affordable £40m.
However, incoming assistant manager Ruud van Nistelrooy remains a big admirer of Branthwaite, having worked with the left-footed defender at PSV Eindhoven. United desperately need to offload players to raise the required funds, with Casemiro, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, Antony, and Jadon Sancho all up for potential sales.
Saudi clubs have shown interest in Casemiro, but have been put off by his £30m price tag. Lindelof, who only has one year remaining on his contract, could be sold for around £15m. West Ham showed interest in Maguire last summer, but with the imminent arrival of Max Kilman from Wolves for £40m, it’s uncertain whether they’ll make another move for the England defender.
Antony, who cost Erik ten Hag £86m two years ago, may not fetch anywhere near that amount if United decide to cash in on him this summer. The potential loss on the former Ajax player, whom Ten Hag staunchly supports, might be enough to keep him at Old Trafford. Sancho’s situation is different, having spent the latter half of last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund, aiding them in reaching the Champions League final. However, his strained relationship with Ten Hag could see him being pushed out again, provided they can find a buyer.
United’s need to offload players is urgent, with the club’s transfer plans hinging on their ability to raise funds. The Red Devils are keen to sign a top central defender, but their failure to land Branthwaite has set them back. De Ligt is now their top target, but they must first sell players to afford his £40m price tag.
The situation highlights the challenges facing United this summer. The club must balance their desire to sign top talent with the need to offload players who are no longer needed. With the transfer window set to open, United fans will be eagerly awaiting news of any new signings. However, the club’s priority must be to raise funds by selling players, before they can make any significant additions to their squad.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s transfer plans are at a crossroads. The club must decide whether to persevere with their pursuit of Branthwaite, or to shift their focus towards other targets like De Ligt. Either way, United must first offload players to raise the required funds, making for a challenging summer ahead.
Sport nation
Amina Umar
