Sports
Man Utd believe ‘close relationship’ can seal move for priority summer target | Football
The 21-year-old centre-half has enjoyed a superb campaign at Goodison Park and is thought to lead a shortlist of defenders under consideration at Old Trafford.
Branthwaite will be among United’s priority targets with their backline ravaged by injury this season with the futures of a number of their defensive options in doubt.
Everton are likely to demand a fee in the excess of £75million for the England Under-21 international but United hope to drive that price down to around £50m.
The Manchester club also hope the presence of Wilcox can also boost their chances of getting a deal done.
United intent to make the former winger their new technical director and are confident of agreeing a compensation package with Southampton, where he has served as football director, in the coming days.
Wilcox would work alongside Dan Ashworth, with United planning to bring him in as sporting director.
The Sun report Wilcox has a close working relationship with Branthwaite’s agent David Reeves with United believing that will ensure they lead the race to sign the defender.
There could be significant changes to United’s defence this summer with Raphael Varane tipped to leave. The World Cup winner has endured another injury-hit campaign with Saudi Pro League sides interested in signing him this summer.
His regular partner Lisandro Martinez has been limited to just 11 appearances this season with Harry Maguire often stepping in.
The England star was chased by West Ham United last summer with ten Hag recently admitting his former captain wants to play more, opening the door for a possible move away this summer.
Jonny Evans has proven to be an able deputy when called upon this season but at 36, is not a long-term solution.
MORE : Everton face further pressure in tough trip to Chelsea
MORE : Micah Richards ‘disillusioned’ by Manchester United defender’s performance in Bournemouth draw
MORE : Another Man Utd star shares cryptic message after Alejandro Garnacho likes posts slamming Erik ten Hag
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Source
Disclaimer: No copyright infringement intended. All rights and credits reserved to respective owner(s).
Reality Star, Bisola Aiyeola Super Excited As She Meets Hollywood Actor Idris Elba
Insecurity: Engage Nigerians, build trust – NSA Ribadu tasks defence spokespersons
‘2024 will be a tough year for Afrobeat singers’ – Paul Okoye warns
Ruben Amorim ideal choice to replace Eric ten Hag at Manchester United | Football
Airline catering company at Toronto Pearson reaches tentative agreement: union
Delta LG election: There’ll be no imposition of candidates – Oborevwori
Cameroon beat Nigeria in opening match
EU debates future regulation of Artificial Intelligence within the bloc
Burna Boy Bags 4 Nominations On 2023 Soul Train Awards
Grassroot Football Teams Pays Congratulatory Visit To Alhaji Salisu Usman Galadima
Nigeria vs Lesotho: Notsi Beef up Squad for Super Eagles
