Manchester United are heading into the summer transfer window hoping to make a statement.
The Reds’ new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been open about the club not being the ‘smart money’ in the transfer market for some time, something which has been proven beyond doubt recently. Erik ten Hag is not solely to blame for the amount of money United have splashed on transfers during his tenure.
While the Dutchman identified the likes of Casemiro and Antony as targets, it was the United boardroom that signed off on huge transfer fees to bring them to the club. For one reason or another, these deals have proven to be costly in more ways than one and INEOS will be looking to address that this summer.
READ MORE: Everton stance on Branthwaite
READ MORE: How INEOS have improved United in 100 days
MEN Sport understands United have targeted Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite as one of Ratcliffe’s first summer signings. The Toffees are expected to hold firm on a fee of up to £80m for their talented defender who could make his debut for the England team this summer.
It has been a breakout season for the 21-year-old at Goodison Park but before he managed to leave his mark on the Premier League, he was given a chance to impress in one of Europe’s top leagues by United icon Ruud van Nistelrooy. When asked to give his verdict on the centre-back, the former striker gave a glowing review.
“He is a great talent,” Van Nistelrooy confessed. “The boy is young, but he has a future. He is good on the ball, can play on the left or the right of centre-back because he is two-footed. He has height and speed, so he is very complete.”
The former PSV manager’s report on the centre-back speaks volumes about the approach United are looking to take this summer. Ratcliffe may be reluctant to spend big money but he will know all too well that a player like Branthwaite will command a big fee.
However, spending big is not inherently a bad idea so long as the talent in question has been scouted thoroughly, can add improvements to the team and can grow in value at your club. There is little doubt that Branthwaite remains a rough diamond but it is clear from Van Nistelrooy’s glowing recommendation that United’s approach to transfers shall alter this summer.
INEOS are looking to mop up the best young talent in the game and it seems Branthwaite could be just that.