According to The Athletic, Manchester United have made a preliminary bid of £35 million for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite as part of their efforts to strengthen their backline following a challenging season.
Erik ten Hag, United’s manager, is particularly interested in Branthwaite after the departure of Raphael Varane, seeing the young defender as a suitable replacement. Branthwaite, who had a commendable season with Everton, making 41 starts across all competitions, has impressed with his solid performances, catching the eye of the Red Devils. Reports suggest that Manchester United and Branthwaite have already agreed on personal terms.
The proposed deal consists of £27 million upfront and an additional £8 million in bonuses. However, despite their financial troubles, Everton have rejected the bid, holding out for a higher fee.
In addition to their pursuit of Branthwaite, Manchester United are also targeting Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, according to Nacional. Zubimendi is considered one of the finest midfielders in his position and had an outstanding season with Real Sociedad, scoring four goals and providing one assist in 45 games.
The Spanish midfielder has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Arsenal and Barcelona. Despite this competition, Manchester United have entered the race, with Ten Hag searching for a new midfield partner for Kobbie Mainoo.
The need for reinforcement in the midfield has been heightened by the expected departure of Casemiro and the uncertainty surrounding Christian Eriksen’s future. Additionally, Sofyan Amrabat’s loan is unlikely to be made permanent.
Zubimendi’s calm and composed playing style is seen as an ideal complement to Mainoo, potentially strengthening United’s midfield significantly. The 25-year-old has a £50.5 million release clause, and Manchester United are reportedly preparing a £37.8 million offer to secure his services.
Meanwhile, former Manchester United midfielder Paul Ince has suggested that the club should consider signing Joao Palhinha from Fulham.
The Portuguese midfielder is expected to move from Fulham this summer, following a nearly finalized transfer to Bayern Munich last year that fell through on deadline day.
Palhinha made 39 appearances for Fulham in the 2023-24 season, establishing himself as a key player for the team. Ince believes Palhinha would be an excellent replacement for Casemiro at Old Trafford.
In a discussion with Football 365, Ince praised Palhinha’s suitability for Manchester United, emphasizing his ability to pass, tackle, and his physical presence on the field. Ince said, “Joao Palhinha could replace Casemiro next season, without a doubt.
Obviously, he was going to go to Bayern Munich last summer, which fell through on deadline day, but we know Fulham are prepared to sell with Bayern now back in for him.”
He continued, “But I think if you look at the way he plays, I think he’s perfect for Manchester United. He gets about the park. He can pass.
He can tackle. He’s strong. He’s got a good size about him. He’s got everything you need to be a success at Manchester United, and I hope they hijack a move.”
Palhinha’s contract at Fulham runs until 2028, but his expected departure this summer makes him a viable target for Manchester United, potentially addressing their midfield needs alongside their other transfer pursuits.
