Manchester United endured a largely underwhelming 2023-24 campaign as they finished a lowly eighth in the Premier League. They will be looking to make some big signings to make a comeback next term. The Red Devils could secure a Champions League berth and many are already betting on that after reading up on crypto casino lists to find the best casinos in the market.
1- Jarrad Branthwaite
Manchester United are in desperate need of reinforcements in defence. Raphael Varane has left Old Trafford at the end of his contract, with the club opting against renewing his deal. Reports suggest that the Red Devils are also ready to listen to offers for Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof.
Meanwhile, Lisandro Martinez has been an excellent centre-back since coming to Manchester from Ajax in 2022. However, he is injury prone and missed the major portion of last campaign due to fitness issues.
United must sign a top-class centre-back for the 2024-25 season, and they cannot do better than Jarrad Branthwaite. The England international’s huge progress in the last few years has caught the attention of many top European clubs. Last season, he made 35 appearances in the Premier League, with three goals to his name.
The 22-year-old is highly rated for his tackling ability and positioning. He is also naturally left-footed and capable of progressing the ball from the back.
However, Branthwaite is expected to cost United a huge sum of money. They have already had two bids rejected by Everton for the player, with the latest offer standing at £50 million.
The Toffees are demanding £80m to let the defender leave Goodison Park this summer, but that is an unrealistic fee and the Red Devils are unlikely to pay that sum.
2- Viktor Tsygankov
Manchester United have also been looking to bring in attacking reinforcements this summer. They are set to complete a deal for Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee. The Red Devils have agreed a fee with the Serie A outfit and the Dutchman is expected to become their first signing of the summer.
Anthony Martial has left Old Trafford following the expiry of his contract. They brought in Rasmus Hojlund in a huge deal last summer and though he impressed in his debut campaign, the Dane needs help to share the attacking responsibility.
Despite being close to signing Zirkzee, United could also chase another forward this summer. They have been linked with a move for Girona winger Viktor Tsygankov. The Ukrainian footballer was impressive with his performances last season as he struck eight goals and contributed seven assists in 30 La Liga appearances, helping his side to finish third in the league standings.
Tsygankov is contracted with Girona until 2027 but he has a 26 million release clause in his deal. The Red Devils will try to lower the fee by negotiating with the Spanish outfit.
The 26-year-old is a specialist right-winger and United could opt to sign him if Jadon Sancho ends up leaving Old Trafford. Sancho fell out with Erik ten Hag after he criticised the manager in a controversial post on Twitter. The England international was later sent out on loan to Borussia Dortmund for the second-half of the 2023-24 season where he rediscovered his form and helped his side reach the Champions League final. Sancho has reportedly held positive talks with Ten Hag recently, with the two deciding to draw a line on their disagreement and move on.
3- Joao Neves
Joao Neves is one of the best midfielders in Europe and so many clubs are eager to secure his services this summer. He is one of the finest talents to have emerged from the academy of Benfica who has made over 70 senior appearances for the Portuguese outfit, with four goals to his name.
Paris Saint-Germain are looking to seal a transfer for Neves, while Arsenal have also been eyeing a move. Manchester United are also admirers of his talent and could lodge a bid for the midfielder.
The 19-year-old has a €120 million release clause in his contract but none of the clubs are expected to trigger the release clause or come close to paying that amount.
