Manchester United have once again set their sights on center back Branswetter in a bid to strengthen the team's back line after a planned takeover of Everton FC fell through. According to The Telegraph, the shift stems from Everton's financial uncertainty, particularly the termination of a potential takeover bid by American billionaire Dan Friedkin due to concerns over the club's debt levels, which has thrown what had seemed to be a solid Everton finances into turmoil once again.
Manchester United have previously expressed a strong interest in Branswetter and submitted two offers worth £43m and £50m (with add-ons), both of which were rejected by Everton. Although United, for their part, believe Everton's £75m valuation of Branswetter is too high, they have not given up completely and are reportedly considering whether to make a third and final offer, but the total price is unlikely to exceed £55m.
Meanwhile, Manchester United have managed to sign France's 18-year-old defender Leni Yoro from Lille, but that has not dampened their desire for another center-back. With a series of accidents and instability that the team has suffered recently, United's management believes that strengthening the backline is a top priority.
In addition to Brathwaite, United are also considering other center back options, including Dutch international de Ligt. Despite the fact that de Ligt is not a left-footed player, United have expressed a willingness to consider bringing him in to enhance the team's versatility and strength at the back.
However, United still needs to be cautious in bringing in reinforcements as any more reinforcements for defensive positions will be dependent on player departures. The team needs to raise funds to reinvest and make room in wages and squad. Currently, Lindelof has attracted interest from Turkish teams but has yet to receive a concrete offer; Maguire's future remains up in the air; and right-back Wan Bissaka, whose contract expires at the end of next season, has attracted the attention of West Ham United, as well as a number of clubs such as Fenerbahce and Galatasaray.
In addition, United raised funds through the sale of youthful youngsters Kambwala and Alvaro Fernandez as well as the free transfers of Varane and Brandon Williams. These transfers have not only brought financial gains for United, but also provided wider scope for the team's young players to develop.
