Manchester United target two players as summer centre-back overhaul advances

Manchester United are hoping to secure two massive centre-back signings this summer, as they look to revamp their defensive lineup.

With the centre-back position constantly plagued with injuries at Manchester United this season, new owners INEOS are preparing a summer sweep to bolster the backline.

While full-backs and strikers remain high on Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s wishlist, it is believed that centre-backs will be United’s top priority in the summer transfer window.

Read More: Man United “itching” to sell player with non-European club lining up transfer

Lisandro Martínez and Raphaël Varane have both shown promise as centre-backs for Manchester United. However, they have encountered injury hurdles throughout the season, leading to inconsistency in the team’s defensive lineup.

For this reason, Erik ten Hag and sources have told iSport that Gleison Bremer is a top target due to his price tag.

While he only signed a new deal late last year, it is believed that a £43m release clause is included in the 26-year-old’s contract.

Bremer has helped Juventus keep 12 clean sheets in 27 Serie A games this season, making his clean sheet record 44%.

When compared with United’s eight clean sheets in 28 games, a 28.5% record, it’s clear to see why Bremer may be a target for Ten Hag this summer.

United won’t be the only club interested in the young Brazilian, however. Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Tottenham are all interested in making a move if his impressive form continues.

Alongside Bremer, United hopes to secure the signature of Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, who would be seen as a young talent who can develop into a homegrown talent.

Everton are reportedly asking for £75m for the young Englishman, but INEOS hope to make a deal closer to £50m.

Branthwaite has impressed since returning from last season’s loan with PSV Eindhoven. He has started 31 games for the Toffees this season and is in contention for the England Euros squad.

However, to facilitate moves for both Bremer and Branthwaite, a clear-out of the current squad may be needed to comply with the controversial Financial Fair Play regulations.

Despite perhaps the best season of his United career, Scott McTominay is viewed as an expendable player by Ineos who hope West Ham United will continue their interest in the Scot after making a bid last summer.

Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Antony, and Donny van de Beek are also believed to be on Manchester United’s list of potential sales this summer should a suitable offer come in.