Manchester United Transfer News Roundup: Red Devils admire Roberto De Zerbi; club offer £55 million for Everton ace, and more - May 20, 2024
Manchester United ended an underwhelming season with a 2-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday, May 19. Erik ten Hag's men finished eighth in the league and next face Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday, May 25, at the Wembley.
Meanwhile, the Red Devils admire outgoing Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi. Elsewhere, the Old Trafford outfit are ready to prise centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite away from Everton.
On that note, here's a look at the key Manchester United transfer stories as on May 20, 2024:
Manchester United admire Roberto De Zerbi
Manchester United are interested in Roberto De Zerbi, according to journalist Anil Kandola.
The Italian manager has been a huge hit with Brighton & Hove Albion but is parting ways with the club this summer. The Red Devils could consider a managerial change this year following their struggles under Erik ten Hag.
The Dutch manager arrived at Old Trafford from Ajax in the summer of 2022 and enjoyed a decent debut season. His team won the EFL Cup and finished third in the Premier League.
However, Manchester United have regressed this season, ending the campaign in eighth place in the league. While they are in the FA Cup final, it's simply not good enough.
The club are undergoing a sea change under new minority owner, INEOS president Sir Jim Ratcliffe, and a new manager could be on their wishlist. De Zerbi reportedly has admirers at INEOS and the Premier League giants could consider him an option this summer.
Red Devils offer £55 million for Jarrod Branthwaite
Manchester United are willing to offer £55 million to secure the services of Jarrad Branthwaite this summer, according to GIVEMESPORT.
The Red Devils are expected to sign a new defender this year following an underwhelming campaign. The English club conceded 58 goals in 38 games in the Premier League, and changes are in order ahead of the next season.
Moreover, Raphael Varane is set to leave this summer, while the futures of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof remain uncertain. Ten Hag wants to address the situation by roping in Branthwaite. The Englishman has been outstanding for Everton this year, registering 41 appearances across competitions.
His efforts have turned heads at Old Trafford and Manchester United believe he could be the ideal man to solve their defensive conundrum. However, the Toffees are likely to demand £80 million to let the 21-year-old leave.
Former player backs Casemiro to leave
Manchester United legend Dwight Yorke believes Casemiro will leave the club this summer.
The Brazilian midfielder has been a shadow of his former self this season and has faced widespread criticism for his performances. Casemiro has appeared 32 times across competitions, registering five goals and three assists.
Speaking recently as cited by TEAMTALK, Yorke added that the 32-year-old could look for a fresh start this summer.
“It’s hard to criticise Casemiro because of what he’s achieved in the game, but people should expect better from him in a Manchester United shirt.
"It really hasn’t worked out for him this season after such a good first year with the club, and he isn’t getting any younger – he looks like he’s had enough, and he wants a new start at another club next season,” said Yorke.
Yorke added that the Red Devils have a decision on their hands with multiple players this year.
“Jason Wilcox and the other directors at Old Trafford are going to have to have harsh conversations with these players, including Casemiro, and find out whether they really want to be here or not, or whether or not they want the manager (Erik ten Hag) here, so it’s a tough one.”
He continued:
“Casemiro’s a legend of the game and it’s a difficult one, but his name has very much been in the focal point of conversation over the past few months, so it’s certainly something the club need to address this summer. A decision needs to be made.”
Casemiro is wanted in the Middle East this year, according to reports.