Manchester United is reportedly contemplating a dual acquisition of Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Amadou Onana. This move comes amidst anticipated significant alterations to their squad during the upcoming summer transfer window, following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent acquisition of a minority stake, granting him control over the club’s football operations.
Manchester United is expected to seek reinforcement in the central defensive position, particularly with the contracts of Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans expiring at the end of the current season. Additionally, there are plans to enhance their midfield options, given the uncertainties surrounding the futures of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen.
Casemiro has been persistently linked with a potential transfer to the Saudi Pro League, while Eriksen’s diminished role within the team could prompt his departure from Old Trafford.
Reports from the Manchester Evening News indicate that Manchester United is actively monitoring Branthwaite and Onana as part of their strategy to fortify both their defensive and midfield departments.
Both players played the full duration of Saturday’s 2-0 defeat against Erik Ten Hag’s side at Old Trafford. Branthwaite, particularly, has garnered attention during his inaugural full Premier League campaign after a loan spell at PSV Eindhoven last season. He has started 25 of Everton’s 28 Premier League matches, contributing two goals to aid Everton’s attacking endeavors. Moreover, he has played a significant role in Everton’s defensive resilience, with the team recording eight clean sheets in the current season.
Despite reported interest from clubs such as Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Real Madrid, Everton’s manager, Sean Dyche, has asserted the club’s reluctance to part ways with Branthwaite.
On the other hand, Onana, Branthwaite’s teammate at Everton, has made 29 competitive appearances this season, registering three goals and one assist. The Belgian midfielder is contracted until 2027, having signed a five-year deal upon his arrival from Lille in 2022.
While Arsenal may present competition for Onana’s signature, Barcelona’s financial constraints might impede their pursuit of the 22-year-old midfielder, despite displaying interest.