TERMS AGREED: New Manchester United signing spotted today signing Autograph for Man united fans as His deal to Old Trafford set to be completed today
TERMS AGREED: New Manchester United signing spotted today signing Autograph for Man united fans as His deal to Old Trafford set to be completed today
Man Utd aim to sign one and more probably two new centre-backs this window. They’ve agreed personal terms with both Matthijs De Ligt (Bayern Munich) and Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton).
However, United haven’t made progress on agreeing a transfer fee with Bayern who are demanding €50m plus add-ons.
Everton, meanwhile, have already rejected two bids for Branthwaite. United’s biggest was worth £50m (£45m plus £5m in add-ons).
According to Ornstein, Man Utd appear to have temporarily shelved their interest in De Ligt and are now prioritising a deal for Yoro instead.
That tallies with TEAMtalk’s own information, with our sources stating Branthwaite was and continues to remain United’s No 1 centre-back target.
An improved third bid for Branthwaite is understood to be in the works. If a breakthrough with Everton is achieved, United’s hope is it’s Branthwaite and Yoro who sign.
Leny Yoro still favouring Real Madrid
Of course, realising that outcome is anything but straightforward. French outlet L’Equipe reported Yoro’s mind has not changed and he’s still continuing to favour Real Madrid.
Furthermore, Ornstein reaffirmed Everton will not sell Branthwaite for a penny less than their £70m valuation.
The fact they’re on the cusp of generating £50m from the sale of Amadou Onana to Aston Villa means they’re under no pressure to accept a discounted bid for Branthwaite.
Summing up Man Utd’s potentially fruitless pursuit of Yoro, Ornstein concluded: “If Yoro is to make a switch this summer — his Lille terms end in 2025 so they do not want to lose him for free — and Madrid cannot strike a deal, will he instead accept a switch to United?
“That is the burning question and strong efforts continue at Old Trafford to swing the outcome in their direction.
“Suitors including Liverpool backed off after being told of Yoro’s chosen destination — but United have persisted and, so long as the door is ajar, they will keep trying.
“Everything, therefore, rests on the 18-year-old talent and his final decision. That means this situation is definitely worth keeping a close eye on in the coming days and potentially weeks.”
Liverpool, meanwhile, have turned their attention to Crystal Palace and England ace, Marc Guehi. TEAMtalk has exclusively learned the Reds are ‘super confident’ of completing a deal and talks have commenced
