Dan Ashworth “determined” to sign “absolute monster” for Manchester United in 2025

Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth is reportedly “determined” to sign “absolute monster” in the 2025 summer transfer window.

In the 2024 summer transfer window, Manchester United made several notable moves under Erik ten Hag, adding five new first-team players: Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, and Manuel Ugarte.

This influx of talent was accompanied by significant player sales, generating over £120 million. Notable exits included Mason Greenwood, Scott McTominay, Jadon Sancho, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

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While these acquisitions and departures have reshaped the squad, many fans feel that more additions are needed to address remaining gaps. Consequently, the club is already strategising for the 2025 summer transfer window to further strengthen the team and enhance their competitive edge.

According to HITC, United sporting director Dan Ashworth is now “determined” to sign Jarrad Branthwaite next summer as part of a continued upheaval of Ten Hag’s defensive options at the club.

With Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelöf out of contract next summer and Harry Maguire’s future still uncertain as the 31-year-old ages, United will almost certainly need to delve back into the market for another centre-back.

United had two bids of £40 million and £45 million rejected by Everton for the defender, with the Merseyside club determined to hold out for around £70 million, and eventually, the Red Devils moved on to signing De Ligt alongside Yoro as the two centre-back reinforcement this summer.

However, Branthwaite, who is known as an “absolute monster” among scouting circles, is still of keen interest, although the report also suggests that Everton want to tie the player down to a new deal.

Branthwaite agreed on personal terms with United this summer, and there have been rumours that he will demand Everton match these terms if they were to offer him a new deal.

His current deal is set to expire in June 2027, and a new deal would likely extend this by a further two or three years, grately increasing his value. However, Everton currently sit 19th in the league table, and should they go down, they may have to sell Branthwaite in order to raise funds as they enter the Championship.

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