Manchester United must listen to Carlo Ancelotti’s message on transfer favourite

Manchester United must listen to Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti on one of their transfer favourites for this summer.

The Reds are expecting to be busy in the coming months as INEOS look to improve the squad at Old Trafford.

One of the positions that needs strengthening is central defence, particularly after the departure of Raphaël Varane.

United’s lightweight backline was one of the main reasons for the club’s struggles last term, and it is expected that at least two additions will be made.

Jarrad Branthwaite has been labelled as the primary option, and the club have agreed personal terms with the Everton centre-back.

Their opening bid of £43 million was rejected by the Toffees, who want closer to £70 million. United will be hoping for a compromise.

Of course, Real Madrid have also previously been linked with the young defender from Carlisle, partly due to Carlo Ancelotti’s opinion of him.

Ancelotti is regarded as one of the best managers in world football, yet his surprise stint at Goodison Park saw him manage Branthwaite as a youth player.

Branthwaite had signed for the club in 2020 under the leadership of the Italian and he quickly promoted him to be involved in the first-team.

“I am really happy with him, he is really young, a kid,” Ancelotti explained when asked about Branthwaite. “But he showed quality and personality and character.

“He is really calm with the ball, really comfortable, and really aggressive without the ball. He can be a fantastic player for us.”

Ancelotti is one of the best managers at identifying and optimising talent. He knew that there was major potential for Branthwaite and United need to try and make a deal with Everton happen.

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