Man United’s £70m Transfer Strategy with Harry Maguire, as Jim Ratcliffe Takes Action

You will find Manchester United aiming to convince Everton to sanction a summer transfer for Jarrad Branthwaite by offering Harry Maguire to sweeten the deal. Maguire, who is reportedly among the senior stars up for sale at the end of the season, is at the center of United’s transfer plans to secure a top target, as Sir Jim Ratcliffe prepares to get creative.

Branthwaite has stirred significant interest through his performances for Everton this season, especially after impressing on loan at PSV Eindhoven last term. The Toffees may be compelled to sell the 21-year-old amid looming Financial Fair Play concerns and 777’s problematic takeover, despite their desire to retain one of their most prized assets.

The Star reports that Branthwaite is currently valued at £70 million, a sum that could escalate if a bidding war ensues in the upcoming months. United, however, plot to use Maguire as a makeweight in the deal, potentially reducing Branthwaite’s fee by around £20 million.

Yet, it remains unclear whether Maguire would be amenable to moving to Everton, a club that has been embroiled in battling Premier League relegation in recent times. Maguire had a potential move to West Ham United collapse last summer after demanding a significant pay-off to part ways with the M16 giants.

The upcoming transfer window represents the final opportunity for United to extract value from Maguire’s departure, as his current contract is set to expire in June 2025. Despite potential reluctance to move to Merseyside, the 31-year-old should garner interest from other clubs after experiencing a resurgence this season.

Under Erik ten Hag’s management, Maguire has started 18 of United’s 35 Premier League Games and four of their six Champions League matches. However, with the contracts of Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans expiring in June, Ten Hag is expected to pursue at least one new center-back this summer.

One of Maguire or Victor Lindelof is likely to depart, opening the door for a second defensive arrival at Old Trafford. United’s ambitious transfer strategy involving Maguire and Branthwaite showcases the club’s determination to strengthen their squad for the upcoming campaign, as they aim to challenge for top honors in both domestic and European comPetitions.

[News Credit: Daily Express]

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