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After a disastrous last season in which they conceded a record 85 goals in all competitions, Manchester United decided to focus on revamping their backline in the summer.
In came Leny Yoro from Lille with INEOS beating Real Madrid in the race despite the Spanish giants initially being favourites for his signature.
After a lengthy delay, the Red Devils also acquired Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich and so far this campaign, the Old Trafford side have conceded only seven goals in eight games across all competitions.
At the same point last season, they had already let in 14 goals across all competitions so the incomings have definitely helped the team’s defensive solidity.
Jarrad chase ended in failure
But they were not the first names on United’s transfer wishlist with Erik ten Hag a huge fan of Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite due to his ability with both feet.
And the new co-owners did try their level best to land the England international but both their bids were turned down with United’s last offer being worth £50 million including add-ons.
The Merseysiders refused to lower their price below £70 million and INEOS ultimately left the race but have no plans of giving up just yet.
There have been reports stating United’s plans of going after him again during the next summer transfer window but with fierce rivals Liverpool and Manchester City also eyeing Branthwaite, United could seek to sign him up earlier.
As per Football Insider, the three-time European champions plan to try and strike a deal as early as January while Everton will also try and ward off interested suitors by trying to tie down the 22-year-old on a long-term contract.
“Man United are being tipped to line up another bid for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
January approach
“United are still interested in Branthwaite, who also had the likes of Man City and Liverpool keeping tabs on him during the summer months.”
His current deal is valid until 2027 and thus, Everton are in a strong negotiating position and it will be interesting to see whether INEOS agree to spend £70 million on him in the winter when there are concerns regarding the forward line and the left-back position.
Branthwaite is yet to play a game this campaign due to a groin injury but did play the full 90 minutes for Everton’s Under-21 side as he seeks to return to first team action.
A centre-back is needed because both Harry Maguire, who committed a mistake that allowed FC Twente to equalise, and Victor Lindelof’s contracts end in 2025 and both are likely to leave next year.
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