United change transfer plans due to defender’s stellar form under Amorim, Branthwaite deal doubtful | OneFootball

Manchester United have changed their transfer strategy for the summer transfer window following the revival of Harry Maguire under manager Ruben Amorim.

The England international was out of favour under former boss Erik ten Hag, and there was speculation that United may not trigger an extension clause in his contract.

However, the scenario has completely changed under Amorim’s tutelage. Maguire’s sublime form in the middle of the back three has assured his Old Trafford stay for another 12 months.

The Daily Mail claims the decision will save United money. The focus is now on landing a young centre-back with potential rather than a readymade replacement such as Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.

The 22-year-old would cost £70 million in transfer fees and £160,000 in weekly wages. United are set to avoid such a huge outlay following the resurgence of Maguire in recent weeks.

INEOS are trying to be clever with summer investment

INEOS spent more than £200m on new signings during the summer transfer window, but there may not be a repeat unless United qualify for the Champions League.

The spending could be more restricted and dependent on player sales. With this in mind, United can’t afford to make a staggering £70m outlay to bring Branthwaite from Everton.

The Red Devils already have four quality central defenders – Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro and Lisandro Martinez.

Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof are expected to leave on free transfers. United could replace them with a young centre-back.

The club may not want to spend over £30m with wages not exceeding more than £100,000 per week.

If Amorim wants a sixth central defender, he could promote Godwill Kukonki from the academy ranks.

Aside from a centre-back, United must invest in a defensive midfielder and a marquee centre-forward during the summer.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.