Manchester United can focus on the transfer window after making a decision on Erik ten Hag’s future – and centre backs continue to be linked.
After months of speculation, Erik ten Hag is now staying put as Manchester United boss.
Ineos are sticking by the Dutchman and giving him a chance to bounce back after a disappointing second season in charge.
United must bolster Ten Hag’s squad this summer and at least one centre back is an absolute priority this summer.
Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez have suffered injury woes whilst Raphael Varane is leaving at the end of his contract.
Add in that Victor Lindelof is wanted by Jose Mourinho at Fenerbahce and it’s clear that United need defensive additions.
Manchester United could Max Kilman move
United have already failed with one bid for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
Another left-footed centre back appears to be a priority given Martinez’s injuries and Branthwaite fits the bill.
Everton are demanding big money for Branthwaite though and United could pivot to another homegrown option in that area.
The Telegraph report that United ‘could make their move’ for Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Max Kilman.
It’s suggested that Kilman is on a ‘long list’ of centre back targets at Old Trafford this summer.
Newcastle United have made a bid for Kilman, offering cash plus midfielder Elliot Anderson – but that offer has been rejected.
West Ham United have met a similar fate having failed with a £25million offer for Kilman just a few days ago.
Wolves would want around £40million for Kilman, a price far beyond what West Ham have offered so far.
That figure is much cheaper than the deal Everton want for Branthwaite, which may well tempt United into making an offer.
Ralf Rangnick recommended Kilman
Kilman isn’t a young up-and-comer like Branthwaite, but he has plenty of Premier League experience at 27.
The 6ft 4in centre back also serves as Wolves captain and that leadership ability could be a welcome addition in the United back line.
One interesting note on Kilman is that he has been on the United radar for a while – thanks to Ralf Rangnick.
Reports in 2022 suggested that Rangnick had recommended Kilman to the United board and wanted to bring him to Old Trafford.
No deal was done back then as Rangnick ended up leaving the club to be replaced by Ten Hag, but United have maintained that interest in Kilman.
We would still make Branthwaite a more likely signing than Kilman, but Everton’s asking price may just tempt United to look elsewhere – and Kilman clearly still has admirers inside Old Trafford despite Rangnick’s exit.
- READ MORE: Manchester United confirmed signings, transfers in, out, loan exits, releases for 2024/25
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