United Beyond Manchester

Manchester United need a little bit of everything this summer. The squad will certainly be revamped under the guidance of the newly appointed team by Ineos. One area that United has to improve is the center of defense. The current side has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play, and Ratcliffe will want to bring in a young, athletic defender who can provide more security to Andre Onana’s goal. Below, we look at three names linked to Old Trafford and what they could bring to the team.

1. Jean-Clair Todibo

Jean-Clair Todibo would be the easiest center back to sign on this list. Nice is also owned by Ineos, and if they want him at Manchester United, then they can make it happen.

Todibo has established himself as one of the best defenders in Ligue 1 since he moved from Barcelona in 2021. The 6’3 Frenchman brings pace and power and is known for his ability to progress the ball well out of the back. Playing out of the back has become a critical part of Manchester United’s style of play, which makes Todibo a great fit for the squad.

At the end of 2023, Todibo became a full French international after playing in two matches for Les Bleus.

Transfermarkt values Todibo at $38 million, but he would likely cost United around $60 million.

Jean-Clair Todibo would make an immediate impact on for Manchester United and would make a fantastic first signing under Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

2. Jarrad Branthwaite

Jarrad Branthwaite is already an established center-back for Everton at just 21 years-old. The Everton side has been battling point deductions and outside noise all season, but Branthwaite is a big reason they look likely to stay in the Premier League this season.

The 6’5 Englishman is a dominant aerial presence and wins nearly every duel he faces. He reads passing lanes well and uses his large frame to fight through attackers and win the ball. Branthwaite is unusually quick for his size, making him a complete player with the potential to be one of the best center-backs in the world.

Trasfermarkt lists Branthwaite at $27 million, but there is no doubt he will cost much more. According to The Daily Mail, Everton will demand closer to $100 million to allow the young defender to leave this summer.

Jarrad Branthwaite would be a perfect addition to Manchester United and would be an important player for years to come.

3. Marc Guehi

Marc Guehi has long been linked to Manchester United. The 23-year-old center-back moved to Crystal Palace in 2021 and became an crucial player for the club. He has established himself as one of the best center-backs that England has, as he has accumulated nine appearances for the Three Lions since his debut in 2022.

Marc Guehi has a knack for winning the ball by reading the attack and intercepting passes. Like Todibo, Guehi is good on the ball, and can dribble comfortably and pass well out of the back. The only weakness of the English international’s game is his aerial presence. His 6’0 frame does not make him the most imposing defender, and he struggles in the air.

Crystal Palace would likely demand upward of $80 million for Guehi’s services. Several other teams, including rivals Liverpool, are also interested in him.

While Guehi is a fantastic defender, I would prefer to add the height of Branthwaite or Todibo to the United backline. Lisandro Martinez is the best defender for the Reds, but his height limits him in the air. I would be happy with Guehi, but I think the other two would be a better fit.