Manchester United Transfer News: Ruben Amorim Prioritizes Jarrad Branthwaite Signing
New Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is reportedly eager to make a significant move in the upcoming summer transfer window, targeting a player previously pursued by former boss Erik ten Hag. While Amorim made a couple of swift additions during his initial transfer window, bringing in promising talents Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven, his ambitions appear to be much larger for the summer.
January saw limited transfer activity at Old Trafford, primarily due to Financial Fair Play regulations. To facilitate some movement, the club sanctioned loan departures for Antony and Marcus Rashford, sending them to Real Betis and Aston Villa respectively. However, with the summer window approaching, Amorim is expected to have more financial flexibility, although the exact budget remains undisclosed.
According to reports, a top priority for Amorim is Jarrad Branthwaite, the talented Everton defender. Interestingly, Branthwaite was a player that Erik ten Hag also greatly admired and attempted to sign, but was ultimately unsuccessful in bringing him to Manchester United. Now, Amorim is pushing for the club to “go all out” to secure Branthwaite’s signature, signaling his importance to the new manager’s plans.
Branthwaite a Key Target for Manchester United’s Defence
Amorim was reportedly impressed by Branthwaite’s performance against Manchester United in their recent 2-2 draw at Goodison Park. This close-up view seemingly solidified Amorim’s conviction that Branthwaite is the right profile to strengthen the United defense. It’s suggested that Manchester United are prepared to meet a valuation exceeding £50 million for the young England international.
However, securing Branthwaite won’t be straightforward. Everton, under new ownership, are not perceived to be under pressure to sell their prized asset. Furthermore, the Toffees reportedly rejected a £50 million bid from Manchester United for Branthwaite last summer. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, now a minority co-owner at United, has indicated a firm stance on transfer valuations, suggesting the club won’t overpay in the market.
Last summer, Everton were believed to be holding out for at least £70 million for Branthwaite, especially considering he signed a new long-term contract extending until 2027. As Everton prepares to move into their new Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium next season, retaining key players like Branthwaite is likely a priority.
Adding another layer of complexity, reports claim that Branthwaite himself might only consider leaving Everton for a team playing in the prestigious Champions League. Currently, Manchester United’s prospects of Champions League qualification via their Premier League position are slim. Their only remaining route into the competition this season is by winning the Europa League.
**Key Takeaways:**
- Ruben Amorim wants Manchester United to prioritize signing Jarrad Branthwaite.
- Manchester United are reportedly ready to offer over £50 million for the Everton defender.
- Erik ten Hag previously tried to sign Branthwaite but was unsuccessful.
- Everton value Branthwaite highly and rejected a £50 million bid last summer.
- Branthwaite reportedly prefers a move to a Champions League club.
- Manchester United’s Champions League qualification is uncertain.
**Player Profile: Jarrad Branthwaite**
- **Position:** Centre-back
- **Club:** Everton
- **Nationality:** English
- **Contract Expiry:** 2027
- **Strengths:** Aerial ability, tackling, composure, potential for development.
Will Manchester United succeed in their pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite this summer? The coming transfer window promises to be an interesting one for the Red Devils as Ruben Amorim begins to shape his squad.
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