Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the new owner of Manchester United, is determined to make a splash in the transfer market and is eyeing Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite as his first signing. The Red Devils are in need of a new center-back following the departures of Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans, and Ratcliffe sees Branthwaite as the perfect player to transform United’s fortunes on the field.
Branthwaite has emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in the Premier League and is also hoping to secure a place in England’s Euro squad. With Everton facing financial difficulties due to the collapse of their £500 million takeover bid by 777 Partners, Ratcliffe is looking to take advantage of their situation by acquiring Branthwaite for a cut-price fee of £40 million.
Everton, desperate for funds to stay afloat, may have no choice but to sell their players below their market value. Branthwaite, who was previously valued at £80 million, could be sold for half that amount. Other players such as Jordan Pickford, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Amadou Onana, and Dwight McNeil could also be available for reduced fees.
However, Manchester United’s move for Branthwaite is not without complications. As Ratcliffe’s group Ineos also owns French side Nice, who have qualified for the Europa League, Uefa has raised concerns about the English billionaire having a “decisive influence” over two clubs in the same competition. If Ineos fails to address these concerns, United could be relegated to the Conference League, which would be a significant blow for Ratcliffe.
In addition to his transfer dealings, Ratcliffe has been asserting his authority behind the scenes at Manchester United. Recent reports suggest that non-playing staff have been given just one week to decide if they want to resign from their jobs. This move could be part of Ratcliffe’s efforts to streamline the club and make it more efficient.
Overall, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite highlights his ambition for Manchester United and his desire to see the club challenging for top honors as quickly as possible. While Everton’s financial struggles provide an opportunity for a cut-price deal, there are potential complications that could affect United’s participation in European competitions. Ratcliffe’s actions off the pitch also indicate his determination to make significant changes at the club.