Man Utd set to use Maguire as 'bait' to sign top Ratcliffe transfer target

Suraj Radia

• 5 May 2024 10:00 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United are hoping to use Harry Maguire as ‘bait’ for Everton in order to sign Jarrad Branthwaite this summer.

Branthwaite is believed to be one of United’s top targets to strengthen in defence but Everton are desperate to retain the services of their star man and have not positioned themselves as willing sellers so far.

The Toffees have put an asking price in excess of £70 million on the 21-year-old – a fee which United are reluctant to match due to their desire to invest across their entire squad in the upcoming transfer window.

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But the Daily Star have suggested that Maguire could be used to lower the asking price and maximise United’s transfer budget by offering the 31-year-old in exchange as a replacement for Branthwaite.

However it remains to be seen whether Maguire – who rejected a move to West Ham last summer – would be willing to entertain a move, having successfully fought to battle his way back into first team contention under Erik ten Hag this season.

Everton have also given no indication that they would be willing to take a lower fee for Branthwaite given their financial issues, with United hoping that Maguire’s inclusion could offset around £20m of any price.

United looking to cash in on Maguire in pursuit of younger vision

Maguire still faces an uncertain future at Old Trafford despite recapturing some of his best form for United this season, having featured in more than double the game time he had in the previous campaign.

The England international is entering the final year of his contract and, although United have the option to extend, the club are looking to cash in on Maguire in order to raise funds for their rebuild.

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Reports have suggested that all but three players in Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund are available for transfer this summer, with Ratcliffe seeking to revamp United’s direction on and off the pitch.

The pursuit of Branthwaite is an example of the new policy Ratcliffe wishes to enforce, with a priority towards younger signings, while a new striker and midfielder are also expected to be targeted.