Manchester United identify Ugarte alternative with Branthwaite transfer potential

Manchester United may still try to prise Jarrad Branthwaite to Old Trafford despite signing defender Leny Yoro with a Spanish midfielder providing a Manuel Ugarte alternative.

This comes as a result of Everton’s proposed takeover by Friedkin group falling through despite looking all but done in previous weeks. A deal for Branthwaite looked dead in the water when Aston Villa bid £50m for Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana which, in turn, would release the financial pressure on the Merseyside club.

Now, with the Friedkin group pulling out of negotiations, question marks have resurfaced regarding the Blues' financial health and debt status which could potentially lead to more outgoings this summer. United signed 18-year-old French defender Leny Yoro for £58.8m on Thursday but are still in the market for talent at centre-back.

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Erik ten Hag’s side have already had two bids - of £43m and £50m - rejected but could go again with an improved offer given Everton’s precarious financial situation.

United were also widely reported to be interested in Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Light but the club will not pay over what they see fit according to the Telegraph. The club are also thought to be holding talks with Paris Saint-Germain regarding the situation of Uruguayan midfielder Ugarte with reports suggesting personal team have been agreed - United dealt with his agent Jorge Mendes during Yoro’s completed transfer.

Martin Zubimendi - who won UEFA Euro 2024 with Spain - may be an alternative if the deal falls through at the final stages. The Real Sociedad midfielder played second