Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants Manchester United to embark on a major transfer rebuild in the summer
Manchester United will start a significant summer roster rebuilding in the summer. Following their investment last month, new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos group have taken over Old Trafford’s football operations and are already making plans.
Ratcliffe has already named players such as Omar Berrada and Sir Dave Brailsford off the field; although, the latter is currently on gardening leave from Manchester City. Dan Ashworth is another man on gardening leave; if a deal with Newcastle United is made, he will take over as sporting director.
But the majority of this summer’s planning will be focused on issues related to the transfer market. If United wants to catch up to teams like this, they need to completely revamp their roster.
Amadou Onana and Jarrad Branthwaite, two players from Everton who faced United on Saturday, are among the many players with whom United have already been linked. Given the continued problems at center-half, Branthwaite has been linked to a move to Old Trafford, while midfielder Onana is seen to be able to provide greater strength and presence in the middle of the pitch.
Given their continuous financial difficulties and the possibility of another points deduction following alleged FFP and PSR breaches, Everton may need to cash in on both players. Their two assets might fetch them about £125 million if they sell them; Branthwaite is likely to fetch at least £75 million, while Onana is anticipated to fetch more than £50 million.
Nickson is believed to have been watching Branthwaite in particular, with the 21-year-old having impressed this season. Newcastle are looking for a young central defender with Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schar’s long-term futures in doubt.
Branthwaite is a left-sided centre-half and is on the verge of England honours. Erik ten Hag is a big fan of having a left-footed centre-half and has often chosen to play Luke Shaw in there rather than a right-footed option like Harry Maguire.
