Manchester United are considering a move for a Premier League defender following the injury to their new signing, Leny Yoro. Yoro, who joined Manchester United in a high-profile transfer after the club outbid Real Madrid, is now facing a three-month absence due to an injury sustained during a preseason match against Arsenal. This setback has forced the Red Devils to reassess their defensive options in the transfer market.
Initially, Manchester United had targeted Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt, but negotiations did not yield any progress, prompting the club to explore other options. According to The Sun, Manchester United have now turned their attention to Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.
The Red Devils have already made two attempts to secure the young English centre-back, with their first bid around £35 million and the second at £45 million, both of which were rejected by Everton.
Despite these setbacks, Manchester United are reportedly planning a third bid for Branthwaite as they urgently seek to address the defensive void left by Yoro’s injury. Everton, however, are holding out for a £70 million fee for the 21-year-old defender.
Manchester United are currently reluctant to meet this valuation, but with their growing desperation to reinforce their defense, it remains to be seen if they will increase their offer to meet Everton’s demands.
Branthwaite’s performances last season have solidified his reputation as one of the top young defenders in the Premier League. His leadership qualities were particularly evident during Everton’s difficult campaign, where his maturity and composure played a crucial role in helping the club avoid relegation.
Although Branthwaite’s experience at the highest level is relatively limited, his potential and Premier League exposure could make him a valuable addition to Erik ten Hag’s squad, especially in light of Manchester United’s current defensive issues.
The coming days will likely reveal whether Manchester United will succeed in their pursuit of Branthwaite, as they look to bolster their defense ahead of the new season.
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