If United are unable to persuade Everton to acquire Jarrad Branthwaite, they will reportedly set their sights on Crystal Palace centre defender Marc Guehi. This information comes courtesy of Givemesport.
After Raphael Varane’s contract expires on June 30, he will be eligible to become a free agent, therefore the Red Devils will likely bring in a new central defender this summer. The Toffees’ transfer demands are making a deal including Branthwaite, the current favourite to replace the Frenchman, difficult to implement at this time.
Even if Everton may demand £80 million, Manchester United is willing to spend up to £55 million for the 21-year-old. If the Toffees are unwilling to negotiate a transfer fee, according to Givemesport, the Red Devils may look into signing Guehi. Supposedly, Palace is considering asking £60 million to sell Guehi.
Playing time in the Premier League
Over the last 18 months, Branthwaite has achieved tremendous strides. He broke into Sean Dyche’s plans at Everton after being a regular starter for PSV Eindhoven on loan in the second half of the 2022/23 season. In a stellar full season, the central defender showcased his tackling prowess, clearances, duel winning skills, and recovery abilities.
Although United’s interest in signing him is predictable, they might be hesitant to pay a premium after failing to secure a spot in the Champions League. The team may have to be more frugal with its summer expenditures this year due to the reduced earnings. If they spend too much, they risk losing points for breaking the Profitability and Sustainability regulations.
Because of this, if Everton does not reduce their demands in the next weeks, the Red Devils may concentrate on Guehi. Similar defensive abilities to Branthwaite’s are exhibited by the 23-year-old. Last season in the Premier League, he averaged 3.5 clearances and 4.8 ball recoveries per game, winning 60% of his ground and aerial duels.
United will most likely want a negotiated transfer fee for the Englishman. It might be a profitable deal if they can get his £50 million signature. With 98 Premier League matches under his belt, the former Chelsea graduate is more seasoned than Branthwaite, making him an excellent addition to United’s roster.
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