Manchester United willing to pay £50 million asking price for Euro 2024 star

Manchester United are willing to pay the asking price for one of the emerging stars during Euro 2024.

The Reds are looking to improve their squad this summer after INEOS decided that Erik ten Hag would remain in the hot seat at Old Trafford.

One of the priority signings is a centre-back after Raphaël Varane’s departure and Victor Lindelöf’s likely sale in the coming weeks.

Jarrad Branthwaite has been identified as the favourite and United have already agreed personal terms with the English defender.

However, their opening bid of £43 million was rejected by Everton, who are not budging from a £70 million asking price – a figure the Reds are not willing to match.

That could lead to INEOS looking at alternative targets, of which there are several. However, Jean-Clair Todibo is unlikely to move from OGC Nice due to UEFA rules.

Riccardo Calafiori has caught United’s attention. He has excelled for Bologna and Italy at Euro 2024.

The centre-back’s excellent performances last term, as he helped lead the Serie A side into the Champions League spots, earned him a starting position for Luciano Spalletti in Germany.

A report from Fichajes has stated that the Premier League club see Calafiori as the ideal profile to strengthen their backline.

With various other clubs interested in the 22-year-old, the report added that United are willing to pay close to £50 million to secure his signature.

Prior reports have suggested that the defender will cost between £30-40 million, and due to his lack of experience, United would be expected to try to test the waters at a lower price.

However, it appears to be a deal for a talented, young defender that would not be as costly as Branthwaite. On the other hand, taking both Calafiori and Joshua Zirkzee from the Italian club could be complicated.

According to various reports, the Reds are preparing to activate the £34 million release clause in Zirkzee’s contract at the Italian club.

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