IMAGE CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES
Three of Manchester United’s five summer signings were defenders.
In 2023/24, United conceded their most goals in one season in Premier League history with 58.
Leny Yoro, Matthijs De Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui were brought in at the back to amend their defensive issues.
These signings have so far had a positive impact.
This season, United are conceding 8.5 shots per game in all competitions, compared to a whopping 16.6 last campaign.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
However, United’s investment in their defence is not over, as they are currently eyeing Premier League centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite.
Over the summer, United sent three bids for Branthwaite which were all unsuccessful.
The Red Devils offered £59m for the centre-back, but Everton were obstinate in their £70m valuation of him.
New reports from Football Insider reveal that United will make another approach for Branthwaite in January.
With Victor Lindelof and Johnny Evans’ contracts expiring in 2025, Erik ten Hag needs as much depth at centre-back as possible.
Branthwaite is tied down to his Everton contract until 2o27, meaning the Merseyside club will have strong negotiating power over his transfer fee.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Transfer insider Pete O’Rourke has explained that United will continue to keep an eye on the 22-year-old throughout the season.
Branthwaite is yet to appear for Everton this season, due to a groin injury that he sustained in July.
Nevertheless, he did start for Everton’s U21 side last Sunday, as he nears his long-awaited return.
The centre-back played all 90 minutes in their 4-3 win over Sunderland.
United have kept a Premier League-high three clean sheets this season, showing a clear improvement at the back.
However, INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe have shown a desire to add depth in all positions, especially by bringing in younger players.
With United’s ownership looking to be fourth-time lucky, fans could see an end to this transfer saga in January.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!