Ineos are already planning ahead with their transfer strategy after a successful first summer window with Manchester United.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe wasted no time in creating a proper footballing structure at Manchester United after his minority takeover deal was completed in December.
The new-look hierarchy, which includes sporting director Dan Ashworth and technical director Jason Wilcox, delivered five brilliant signings over the summer window.
Attention has now turned to 2025 and, as always, United have been linked to a wide array of stars for the January market as well as next summer.
The Red Devils always have their name thrown around in transfer rumours, but one target which does seem realistic is Jarrad Branthwaite after United submitted several bids for the Everton defender over the summer.
Manchester United interest in Jarrad Branthwaite
Heading into the summer, United were on the lookout for defensive reinforcement and Branthwaite seemed to be at the top of the list.
United were quick to bid for the 22-year-old, but CEO Omar Berrada blocked the Branthwaite deal after refusing to meet their £75m valuation.
However, United remain interested in Branthwaite and he very much still fits Ineos’ transfer plan. They are targeting three major signings in 2025, one of which will be a defender.
Despite signing Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro over the summer, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans all face uncertain futures and could leave United in the near future.
That would open up plenty of space for extra reinforcements at centre-back. Branthwaite remains at the top of the list.
However, United could face competition from Real Madrid for Branthwaite’s signature with the Spanish giants still in the market for a defender after missing out on Yoro.
Jarrad Branthwaite was ‘immense’ for Everton
After huge speculation over his future this summer, Branthwaite missed the opening of the new season due to injury.
He made his return for Everton in their Premier League clash against Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon.
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The Toffees were winless in their opening five Premier League matches after throwing away multiple leads, but Branthwaite impressed on his return and Everton picked up three points with a 2-1 win over Palace.
The Liverpool Echo hailed Branthwaite’s “immense impact on his return” after spending five months out with an injury.
It was United’s first glimpse at the centre-back since this summer’s speculation, and his dominant performance will only encourage Ineos to go ahead with their 2025 transfer plan.
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