As Man Utd move closer to their dream signing, Ten Hag is ecstatic. The selling club seeks a substitute.

As Man Utd move closer to their dream signing, Ten Hag is ecstatic. The selling club seeks a substitute.

A recent report suggests that Manchester United may have an improved chance of acquiring Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, following Everton‘s identification of a replacement for the 21-year-old defender.

Manchester United’s part-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who recently acquired a 25% stake in the club, has pinpointed central defense as a priority area for strengthening this summer.

Manager Erik ten Hag currently has several options for center-half positions in his squad, including Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans.

However, uncertainty surrounds some of these players,

with Varane reportedly frustrated over contract negotiations and considering a move away from Old Trafford.

Maguire has managed to improve his situation at Manchester United this season, but it remains unclear whether he will feature prominently in Ratcliffe’s plans for the club’s future.

Evans, on the other hand, at 36 years old, may be considering retirement soon.

Ratcliffe views Branthwaite as one of the most promising young defenders in England, capable of anchoring Manchester United’s defense for the next 5-10 years.

The club’s pursuit of Branthwaite received a boost when Tottenham

Hotspur, their main transfer rivals for the player, withdrew from the race.

According to reports, Manchester United is edging closer to securing Branthwaite,

as Everton prepares for his potential departure.

Everton has reportedly identified Sunderland defender Daniel

Ballard as a suitable replacement for Branthwaite.

Ballard, a 24-year-old Northern Ireland international who previously came through

the Arsenal academy, has impressed Everton scouts with his performances for Sunderland in the Championship.

Should Everton pursue Ballard, Sunderland is expected to demand around £20 million for his transfer.

Despite financial challenges, Everton is anticipated to have the necessary funds to meet Ballard’s valuation, particularly considering the significant transfer fee expected from

Branthwaite’s departure, with rumors suggesting figures upwards of £80 million

or even £100 million if Manchester United secures his services.

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