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Manchester United are currently exploring options for new central defenders, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, who shared this update with GIVEMESPORT.
After Everton rejected their £35 million offer for Jarrad Branthwaite, United are wary of entering a prolonged negotiation for the 21-year-old England international, whose asking price exceeds £70 million. As a result, they are considering alternatives.
Sheth has indicated that United have shortlisted four potential replacements to fill the gap left by Raphael Varane’s departure. The players being considered include Leny Yoro, Marc Guehi, Matthijs De Ligt, and Jean-Clair Todibo.
Although a deal for Branthwaite is still a possibility, United are cautious about the high valuation and are therefore keeping an eye on other options. Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Sheth explained that Yoro, currently with Lille, is of particular interest, but Real Madrid and Liverpool are also tracking him. Additionally, Guehi from Crystal Palace, De Ligt from Bayern Munich, and Todibo from Nice are on their radar.
The situation with Todibo is complicated due to UEFA regulations, which may prevent a move due to INEOS owning Nice and having a minority stake in Manchester United. Despite this, United are determined to strengthen their defense.
With Varane’s exit and Victor Lindelof potentially moving to Fenerbahce, United need to sign at least one centre-back to ensure Erik ten Hag has sufficient options. The club aims to find a long-term partner for Lisandro Martinez, focusing on players under 24.
Todibo’s deal appears uncertain, so United might shift their focus to Guehi, who has two years left on his contract with Palace and could be available for around £65 million. Real Madrid’s interest in Yoro makes De Ligt a more likely target, especially since his position at Bayern Munich has been affected by Eric Dier’s arrival.
Beyond bolstering their defense, INEOS also aims to bring in a new striker to replace Antony Martial and provide competition for Rasmus Hojlund. United scored just 57 league goals last season, highlighting the need for more offensive options.
Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee is reportedly close to joining United, and the club is also considering Brentford’s Ivan Toney, who might be available for around £40 million.