Manchester United could make move for £50m star as talks to sign priority target Jarrad Branthwaite stall - Reports
Manchester United are reportedly eyeing Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Max Kilman as an alternative to Jarrad Branthwaite as talks to sign the Everton star have stalled. According to GIVEMESPORT, the Red Devils are considering battling Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United for Kilman’s signature.
With Erik ten Hag was confirmed to continue at Old Trafford, signing a central defender is one of the club’s top priorities for the summer window. United were plagued with multiple injuries across their backline last season, and with Raphael Varane set to leave this summer, they are desperate to sign a top talent.
Manchester United had initially earmarked Branthwaite as their primary target but failed to reach an agreement with Everton for the 21-year-old’s transfer. Nice defender Jean-Claire Todibo was also identified as an option, but UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules have prevented United from engaging in any transfer business with the French side.
The Sir Jim Ratcliffe-led INEOS Group holds a stake in both clubs. Although United and Nice have been cleared to participate in the Europa League next season, they have been barred from conducting any deals between them.
This has led to Manchester United exploring other options, with Wolves captain Kilman emerging as an attractive prospect. The £50 million-rated defender made 44 appearances across competitions last season.
Kilman has become one of the most sought-after players in his position and could be tempted to seek a new challenge this summer. Wolves are also expecting bids from Spurs and West Ham, with the Midlands club determined to stick to their price tag for the 27-year-old.
Adrien Rabiot ‘waiting’ for Manchester United to make a move for him - Reports
Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot is waiting for Manchester United to make a move for him this summer, according to Tuttosport. The Frenchman's contract with the Italian giants is set to expire this summer, with the 29-year-old not too keen to renew right away.
United have been admirers of Rabiot since Erik ten Hag was appointed in the summer of 2022. The Red Devils kept the player on their radar last summer as well, although a move didn’t materialize, with the club instead signing Mason Mount and Sofian Amrabat.
With both transfers not paying dividends, and the Dutch tactician set to continue at the club next season, Manchester United could renew their interest in Rabiot.
He is currently impressing at the ongoing Euro 2024 with France. Rabiot was among their better performers as Les Bleus scraped a 1-0 win in their opening Group D game against Austria on Monday, June 17.
Rabiot and France will next be in action against the Netherlands on Friday, June 21.