Manchester United is considering a major overhaul of their center-back options this summer, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe reportedly spearheading efforts to revamp the position.
Currently, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has a roster of center-backs including Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelof, and Willy Kambwala. However, significant changes are anticipated in this area ahead of the upcoming season.
There have been hesitations from Manchester United regarding the activation of the option in Varane’s contract, which would extend his stay at Old Trafford until June 2025.
Consequently, Varane is contemplating a potential departure from Manchester United and has attracted interest from officials in the Saudi Pro League.
Meanwhile, Maguire has once again emerged as a target for West Ham United. However, it remains uncertain whether he would fit into Ratcliffe and INEOS’ ambitious plans for Manchester United.
Evans has silenced many of his critics this season, with Rio Ferdinand even labeling him as the club’s ‘best defender.’ Nevertheless, at 36 years old, the former Leicester City player may consider retirement either this summer or next.
Martinez has proven to be Manchester United’s most dependable center-back when fit, although he has been sidelined for a significant portion of the campaign due to foot and knee injuries.
Ratcliffe recognizes the importance of a strong defense for Manchester United to mount a serious challenge for Premier League titles once again.
According to reports from the Daily Mail, the British billionaire has identified three highly talented defenders for Manchester United’s shortlist.
One of them is Jarrad Branthwaite, who has impressed for Everton this season and earned a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
Branthwaite, at just 21 years old, has demonstrated assurance in defense and possesses valuable top-level experience. His left-footedness could also provide Ten Hag’s team with greater balance when playing from the back.
However, Everton values Branthwaite highly and will not part with him easily. Manchester United may need to pay a fee of at least £80 million to secure an agreement with their Premier League rivals.
Another target on Ratcliffe’s radar is Aaron Anselmino, an 18-year-old prodigy who has emerged at Boca Juniors.
Manchester United officials are reportedly in contact with Anselmino as they vie for his signature. Real Madrid and Everton have also joined the pursuit for the Argentine talent.
While Boca Juniors have secured Anselmino on a long-term contract, there is a tempting release clause of £17 million.
The third center-back that Manchester United is eyeing is Mikayil Faye, who has been making waves in the Barcelona B team.
Despite being just 19 years old, Faye is already a full-fledged Senegal international and has attracted attention from Manchester United due to his promising potential as one of Europe’s top center-backs.
Barcelona has been rumored to include Faye in a player-plus-cash deal for midfield target Khephren Thuram of Nice. However, if Barcelona opts for a straight transfer, Manchester United would need to pay £25 million to secure Faye’s services.
Read Also: 4-2-3-1: Manchester United predicted XI vs Chelsea, Ten Hag makes 3 changes for must win game
Read Also: Club set to have firm discussions to sign Manchester United player for around €30M
Read Also: Breakthrough: Fabrizio Romano Affirm Sir Jim Ratcliffe has now agreed new off-field Man Utd move