*Manchester United Transfer News Roundup: Red Devils Offer £35 Million for Everton Star; Club Eyeing La Liga Ace, and More – June 15, 2024**
Manchester United are gearing up for significant changes after finishing eighth in the Premier League in the 2023-24 season. Erik ten Hag is expected to overhaul the squad during the summer transfer window to improve their performance next season.
**Manchester United Offer £35 Million for Jarrad Branthwaite**
According to The Athletic, Manchester United have made an initial bid of £35 million for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite. Erik ten Hag is keen on bolstering his defense after a challenging season for the backline. With Raphael Varane departing this summer, the manager sees Branthwaite as a fitting replacement.
Branthwaite had an impressive season with Everton, making 41 starts across all competitions. His solid performances have caught the eye of the Red Devils, who are reported to have agreed on personal terms with the 21-year-old. The offer includes £27 million upfront and £8 million in bonuses. However, Everton, despite their financial troubles, have rejected the bid, holding out for a higher fee.
**Red Devils Eyeing Martin Zubimendi**
Manchester United are also targeting Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, as reported by Nacional. Zubimendi, considered one of the finest in his position, had a standout season with Real Sociedad, scoring four goals and providing one assist in 45 games. Arsenal and Barcelona are also interested in the Spanish midfielder, but United have joined the race.
Ten Hag is searching for a new midfield partner for Kobbie Mainoo, with Casemiro expected to leave and Sofyan Amrabat’s loan unlikely to be made permanent. Christian Eriksen’s future is also uncertain. Zubimendi’s calm and composed playing style would complement Mainoo and strengthen United’s midfield. The 25-year-old has a £50.5 million release clause, and Manchester United are reportedly preparing a £37.8 million offer.
**Paul Ince Urges United to Sign Joao Palhinha**
Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Ince has advocated for the club to sign Joao Palhinha from Fulham. The Portuguese midfielder is expected to move up from Fulham this summer after nearly joining Bayern Munich last year. Palhinha made 39 appearances for Fulham in the 2023-24 season, becoming a key player for the team.
Ince believes Palhinha could be an excellent replacement for Casemiro at Old Trafford. Speaking to Football 365, Ince highlighted Palhinha’s suitability for United, praising his ability to pass, tackle, and his physical presence on the field. He said, “Joao Palhinha could replace Casemiro next season, without a doubt. Obviously, he was going to go to Bayern Munich last summer, which fell through on deadline day, but we know Fulham are prepared to sell with Bayern now back in for him.”
Ince continued, “But I think if you look at the way he plays, I think he’s perfect for Manchester United. He gets about the park. He can pass. He can tackle. He’s strong. He’s got a good size about him. He’s got everything you need to be a success at Manchester United, and I hope they hijack a move.”
Palhinha’s contract at Fulham runs until 2028, but he is expected to leave this summer, making him a viable target for United.
**Manchester United’s Transfer Strategy**
Manchester United’s transfer strategy this summer reflects their urgent need to reinforce various positions following a disappointing season. Erik ten Hag’s focus on young talents like Jarrad Branthwaite and established midfielders like Martin Zubimendi and Joao Palhinha underscores his intent to build a balanced and competitive squad.
The pursuit of Branthwaite shows ten Hag’s commitment to strengthening the defense with young, promising talent. The Everton defender’s consistent performances make him a desirable addition, despite Everton’s initial rejection of the £35 million bid. Negotiations are likely to continue as United seek to finalize this crucial signing.
Targeting Zubimendi indicates ten Hag’s aim to inject quality and stability into the midfield. The Spaniard’s impressive record with Real Sociedad and his potential to mentor younger players like Kobbie Mainoo make him an ideal candidate for United. Meeting his release clause or negotiating a deal close to it will be key to securing his services.
Ince’s endorsement of Palhinha further highlights the club’s need for a robust midfield presence. Palhinha’s attributes align well with United’s requirements, and his potential availability this summer makes him a strategic target. Competing with Bayern Munich for his signature will be challenging, but his acquisition could significantly boost United’s midfield capabilities.
Overall, Manchester United’s transfer activities this summer will be critical in shaping their prospects for the upcoming season. With Erik ten Hag at the helm, the club is poised for an exciting and potentially transformative transfer window.
