Manchester United are already taking steps to strengthen their squad during the upcoming summer transfer window under Ineos ownership. While Sir Jim Ratcliffe may not have Dan Ashworth on board yet, they are aware of their priorities and budget. United recently scouted Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Amadou Onana, and despite their loss, they remain interested in the players. In stadium news, Gary Neville has spoken out about a potential offer for Old Trafford. A chief scout’s actions raised £443 million FFP transfer concerns. United will be focusing on signing a centre-back and central midfielder during the summer transfer window, potentially making them top priorities. Branthwaite and Onana are both potential candidates for different positions as the Ineos Group aims to enhance the squad with experienced Premier League players. Branthwaite, in particular, appears to be a perfect fit for United’s team. Despite being young, he has a lot of experience and possesses the physicality and ball-playing skills necessary to succeed in the Premier League with Manchester United. He is one of just three players under the age of 21 to have played over 2,000 minutes in the Premier League this season, and he has done so at a very high level. Despite playing for a team that doesn’t have much possession and is at the bottom of the table, it’s not surprising that Branthwaite has excelled defensively due to his raw ability. He is among a select group of three Premier League players this season who have achieved at least 50 aerial duels, 25 interceptions, 25 tackles, 20 blocks, and eight clean sheets. Additionally, he excels at reading the game and displays great composure and accuracy when passing the ball. The 21-year-old central defender from Everton has been involved in more plays that lead to shots being taken than any other player on the team. He may be a desirable target for United this summer, but he recently signed a new four-year contract with Everton and would likely be costly for any potential buyer.
