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Manchester United are set for a huge summer overhaul under new owner Ratcliffe and INEOS. Massive departures, nearing 20, are expected.
The defence is one of the areas where reinforcements are expected and to that effect, they are looking at a number of potential targets including Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
The manager’s future is still unclear but what is absolutely clear is the rebuild plans and according to Manchester Evening News, the 21-year-old is on the list.
Manchester United have been extensively scouting the young man according to reports and a transfer just may materialize.
The club is in something of a defensive crisis, with most of their senior centre back already in their 30s.
36-year-old Jonny Evans will be leaving after his short term contract ends.
World Cup winner Rapha Varane who will be 31 next month runs out of contract in June, and he has been attracting interest from clubs in the Saudi league.
Harry Maguire recently turned 31 and Victor Lindelof will be 30 in July.
The age factor is well deep-rooted, as Lisandro Martínez is the only senior centre back who isn’t close to 30. The 26-year-old who is United’s best centre back has been injured for most of the season, further emphasizing just how much defensive reinforcements are needed.
Young Branthwaite has been enjoying a fine breakout season for Everton, benefitting from playing next to so much defensive experience in James Tarkowski.
The duo have formed sort of a Bonnie and Clyde partnership with the old head Tarkowski. The captain Tarkowski does all the dirty work and the young man takes care of playing out from the back, which has been the backbone of Sean Dyche’s tactics this season.
The 21-year-old has impressed many with his displays this season and there are talks he may earn himself a senior cap for England, having represented the Thee Lions only at youth level.
It’s claimed the Toffees are likely to demand a fee in excess of £75million for their prized possession, though United are hopeful of capturing the England Under-21 international for around £50m.
