Manchester United are currently facing a potential hurdle in their pursuit of signing Jarrad Branthwaite this summer. Despite already agreeing on personal terms with the defender, the £70 million minimum demanded by Everton could prove to be too steep for the Red Devils. The Independent reports that United are hopeful of making Branthwaite their first signing of the summer, following the departure of Raphael Varane. However, Everton’s valuation of the England international, based on his nationality, left-footedness, and young age of 21, could prove to be a significant challenge for United. The Merseyside club is standing firm on their asking price, which is close to a world-record fee for a center-back.
Graham Potter, the former Chelsea manager, is reportedly considering a return to Premier League management with Leicester. Despite being linked with opportunities at Ajax and Nice, Potter has not taken up any managerial positions since his dismissal from Stamford Bridge after less than seven months in charge. Leicester, who have not formally offered him the job yet, are said to be interested in bringing Potter onboard. If Potter decides against the move, Leicester may then shift their focus to West Bromwich Albion coach Carlos Corberan.
In the midst of transfer rumors, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are both eyeing a potential move for Arsenal wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin. The 16-year-old has been making waves in the Arsenal academy, having scored an impressive 32 goals in just 18 Premier League 2 games. Bayern Munich are reportedly pushing to secure Obi-Martin’s signature, while Borussia Dortmund are also exploring the possibility of swooping in for the young talent.
Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk is the subject of interest from Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. Talks have commenced between the club and Van Dijk’s representatives, with the Saudi outfit keen on bringing the Dutch center-back to their squad. Al-Nassr is prepared to make Van Dijk the highest-paid defender in the world, should he decide to make the move to Saudi Arabia. This potential transfer could see Van Dijk reunite with familiar faces in the Middle East and could lead to an awkward reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo, who is also linked with a move to the same league.
In conclusion, the summer transfer window is heating up with several high-profile moves and potential signings on the horizon. Manchester United’s pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite, Graham Potter’s potential return to Premier League management with Leicester, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund’s interest in Arsenal’s Chido Obi-Martin, and Virgil van Dijk’s potential move to Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League are just some of the intriguing storylines to watch out for in the coming weeks. Fans and pundits alike will be eagerly anticipating the developments in the transfer market as clubs aim to strengthen their squads ahead of the new season.
