As per the Manchester Evening News, Manchester United have received two major boosts as centre-backs Jarrad Branthwaite and Marc Guehi could be sold this summer.
Everton star Branthwaite has three years remaining in his current contract. However, the Toffees need to sell some of their current players to comply with the PL’s Profit and Sustainability rules.
They might be tempted to sell the player before the end of June to stay below the cash-loss limit threshold. Sean Dyche’s side wants to keep hold of the defender but Everton’s financial status will force them to cash in on their prised asset.
They are looking for £80 million for the 21-year-old, but are ready to negotiate in case any club shows serious interest.
Must Read: Alejandro Garnacho’s Social Media Controversy: A Detailed Analysis
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace centre-back Guehi has been a target for Man Utd for the past few months. The English star has one year left on his present contract and the Eagles have slapped a £55m price tag on his head.
It will be a record sale if United decides to sign the player for that fee and it will surpass the amount they paid to sign Aawon Wan-Bissaka from Palace for £50m in 2019.
Arsenal are also interested in the 23-year-old but it seems unlikely that they will pay such a huge sum since they are happy with their current options. They might be looking for a cheaper backup option.
United are facing severe defensive issues this season owing to injuries. They were forced to play Casemiro alongside Maguire in the FA Cup semi-final clash against Coventry City.
Lisandro Martinez’s injury has forced them to use Willy Kambwala and the 19-year-old has fared well. Luke Shaw’s injury absence has further affected them.
Raphael Varane is set to be a free agent this summer and Jonny Evans’s contract with the Red Devils will also expire in the upcoming months.
Also Read: Chelsea To Hijack Manchester United’s Move For Benjamin Sesko?
Meanwhile, Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire are in their 30s and it will be prudent for the club to look for young players in that position.
Guehi and Branthwaite might be better options but it is highly unlikely that the club will sign both players at their desired fee. It remains to be seen whether the club looks for better options or hunts one of these young centre-backs to solve their defensive crisis.
