Man United receive double transfer update as swap deal recommended

Manchester United have received a double transfer update as a potential swap deal has been recommended to the club.

The Reds are beginning to make movements in the transfer market following confirmation that Erik ten Hag would remain at the club.

Centre-back and striker are two primary positions that need strengthening, and there have been positive reports surrounding both of those roles.

United have agreed personal terms with Jarrad Branthwaite but have seen their opening bid of £43 million rejected by Everton.

Meanwhile, there have been reports that the club are considering an approach to Bologna for striker Joshua Zirkzee.

Now, a report from the BBC has explained that United are keen to do business early in the transfer window and are expected to make an improved offer to the Toffees for Branthwaite.

Another report from Nick Semeraro has explained that Zirkzee’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, has told AC Milan, who are also interested in the player, that they must close the deal or the discussion will be over.

It was explained that United’s initial contact with the agent was positive and that he is willing to give a discount on the £12 million agent fee he is demanding from Milan due to that positive relationship.

While a deal for the striker seems like it might not be too complicated, Everton seem to be refusing to move from their stance on Branthwaite’s price.

Former Premier League player Don Hutchison believes that a deal that included Harry Maguire going the other way could be a solution to both club’s problems.

“£35 million is a ridiculous offer, they are low-balling Everton massively,” Hutchinson said on ESPN FC. “If they are going to sell Branthwaite, they were rumoured to be wanting about £80 million, but that will probably come down to £60 million or £70 million, but they want a lot of money for him.

“For United, him (Branthwaite) and Lisandro Martinez (would be the first choice pairing). I think they’ll try and move Harry Maguire on – [he’s] on big wages, that’ll be difficult, they might even try and use him in the Branthwaite deal if they tried to bring him in.”