Manchester United are reportedly planning a significant mid-season squad overhaul as they target two Premier League stars in moves expected to exceed £100 million. Despite mounting uncertainty regarding the future of manager Michael Carrick, the club is prioritizing reinforcements to bolster a leaky defense that has struggled throughout the current campaign.
Top of the priority list is Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who remains a long-term target for the Old Trafford hierarchy. The 24-year-old is viewed as a vital addition to refresh the club’s defensive options, potentially serving as a replacement for Harry Maguire or Lisandro Martinez. Securing the Englishman will be costly, with Everton reportedly demanding upwards of £60 million for a player who is currently under contract until 2030 and engaged in discussions regarding a new deal. The 24-year-old has a contract until 2030 at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and is also in talks over a new deal. Everton are reportedly looking for over £60 million if they are to sell him in 2027. And Chelsea and Liverpool have also kept tabs on him, the Red Devils have targeted Branthwaite for some time.
Alongside Branthwaite, the club has identified AFC Bournemouth left-back Adrien Truffert as a key recruit. Having scouted the Frenchman, who impressed during Bournemouth’s 3-0 victory at Old Trafford on Sunday, United are prepared to move for him as alternative options like Lewis Hall appear increasingly difficult to sign. Truffert, who offers versatility in both defense and midfield, is estimated to cost around £50 million. The Old Trafford side have set their sights on Truffert, who will reportedly cost around £50 million, as the chances of luring the Englishman shrink.
The pressure on the club’s management has reached a critical point following a dismal start to the season, with only two victories recorded across all competitions. Harry Maguire recently acknowledged that the players have failed to deliver on the pitch during this challenging period. With speculation mounting that Carrick could depart this week, the club is facing a high-stakes transition period as they prepare for an upcoming clash against Chelsea, likely under new interim leadership. Which has leaked goals this season, the two players are seen as ideal additions to the backline. And the former Leicester City man said, the manager is under pressure after winning just two matches in all competitions this season.
