Man Utd identify Guehi as alternative to Branthwaite
According Givemesport, manchester united They will focus on signing Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi if they fail to convince. Everton in a deal for Jarrad Branthwaite.
The Red Devils are likely to sign a new centre-back this summer and Raphael Varane will leave as a free agent when his contract expires on June 30. Branthwaite is currently the main target to replace the Frenchman, but it is difficult to reach an agreement at the moment due to the transfer Toffees demands.
Man United are prepared to pay up to £55m for the 21-year-old, but Everton could expect £80m. Givemesport claim the Red Devils could focus on signing Guehi if the Toffees refuse to budge on the price. Palace could reportedly sell Guehi for around £60m.
Experience in the first division
Branthwaite has made huge strides in the last 18 months. He became a regular starter for PSV Eindhoven on loan during the second half of the 2022/23 season before breaking into Sean Dyche's plans at Everton. The centre-back had a fantastic full season in which he impressed with his tackling, clearances, duel-winning ability and recoveries.
No surprise United want to sign him, but they may not pay the odds after missing out Champions League football. With revenue reduced next season, the club may need to be more cautious with its summer spending to ensure it does not breach Profitability and Sustainability rules, which could lead to a points deduction.
In this sense, the Red Devils could focus on Guehi if Everton refuses to lower their demands in the coming weeks. The 23-year-old has similar defensive attributes to Branthwaite. Won 60% of his ground and aerial duels the last season in the first division with an average of 3.5 clearances and 4.8 ball recoveries per outing.
Obviously, United will want to negotiate the Englishman's final price. If they can get his signature for £50m it could prove to be a good deal. first Chelsea The graduate would be a top signing for United as he has more experience than Branthwaite with 98 Premier League appearances to his name.
