Manchester United Transfer News Roundup: Red Devils suffer Jarrad Branthwaite blow, club agree Noussair Mazraoui deal, and more - July 29, 2024
Manchester United won the FA Cup last season by defeating Manchester City in the final at Wembley. However, Erik ten Hag's team could only manage an eighth-place finish in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, the Red Devils have suffered a setback in their efforts to bring Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite to Old Trafford this summer. Elsewhere, the Premier League giants have agreed a deal to sign Bayern Munich full-back Noussair Mazraoui.
On that note, let's look at the major Manchester United transfer stories from July 29, 2024.
Manchester United suffer Jarrad Branthwaite blow
Everton are planning to hand Jarrad Branthwaite a new deal, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Englishman is already on the radar of Manchester United, who have seen two offers for the player turned down by the Toffees.
Erik ten Hag is eyeing defensive reinforcements this summer and has already signed Leny Yoro from Lille. However, the Dutch manager also has his eyes on Branthwaite, who is proven in the Premier League.
The 22-year-old was outstanding for the Merseyside club last season and could be a fantastic addition to Ten Hag's squad. The Red Devils are hoping that Everton will reduce their £70m asking price for the player to enable a move this summer.
However, speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Romano added that the Toffees are eager to keep their prized asset at Goodison Park.
"Branthwaite - they (United) had two bids rejected, but Everton remain on their position that it has to be at least £70 million. Man United are not paying that money, so the only way to open that door again is if Everton at one point decide to change their position and let the player go for a different price," said Romano.
He continued:
"But at the moment, it still looks like a very difficult deal and also Everton are planning to offer him a new contract. They will do their best to keep the player at the club and very happy. So that's why it's still not something easy."
Manchester United are also interested in Matthijs de Ligt, who is reportedly keen on moving to Old Trafford this summer.
Red Devils agree Noussair Mazraoui deal
Manchester United have reached a verbal agreement to bring Noussair Mazraoui to Old Trafford this summer, according to journalist Santi Aouna. The Moroccan right-back was in and out of Bayern Munich's starting XI last season and could be offloaded this summer.
The 26-year-old shone during his time at Ajax under Erik ten Hag and the Dutch manager is eyeing a reunion this year. Mazraoui's ability to operate at both right-back and left-back also makes him a fine option for the Red Devils.
The player has already given his consent to the transfer, but it will depend on Aaron Wan-Bissaka's future. The Englishman is in talks to move to West Ham United and if that transfer goes through, Manchester United can turn to the Moroccan.
Jonny Evans considered retirement this summer
Jonny Evans has admitted that he would have retired if Manchester United had not offered him a new contract. The 36-year-old signed a one-year extension this summer after impressing under Erik ten Hag last season.
Evans helped the Premier League giants deal with multiple injuries at the back, appearing 30 times across competitions. His experience and inside knowledge of the Red Devils could be invaluable for youngsters like Leny Yoro in the coming days.
Speaking recently, as cited by Sky Sports, the veteran defender insisted that he had a gala time at Old Trafford last season.
“The fine details meant it took a bit longer than expected but I knew I wasn’t going anywhere else. It was either stay here or probably retire. I was glad another season came available and the club wanted me to stay. I had a great time last season and I want to continue that,” said Evans.
Evans could play a vital role next season if Harry Maguire or Victor Lindelof leave Manchester United this summer.