The transfer window opens on Friday and it should be a busy start with many Premier League clubs under pressure to sell due to PSR rules.
This week’s edition of the Transfer Notebook examines Manchester United’s interest in Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite and explores possible alternatives if his price tag becomes prohibitive.
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Additionally, we discuss which recently dismissed Championship manager is being considered for Vincent Kompany’s former position at Burnley, as well as West Ham’s potential pursuit of the player dubbed the ‘Portuguese Jack Grealish’.
Race for Branthwaite
Manchester United are reluctant to meet Everton’s asking price for Jarrad Branthwaite, talkSPORT understands.
Centre-back Branthwaite, who narrowly missed out on a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad, is one of Man United’s top summer transfer targets.
However, Everton’s asking price, which exceeds £70 million, is anticipated to be a sticking point, with new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe determined to avoid the excessive spending habits of Man United’s past.
Ratcliffe also believes despite loose interest from Real Madrid that Man United are the only serious suitors for Branthwaite at this juncture and is wary of being drawn into effectively bidding against himself.
The Red Devils held tentative talks with the agents of Tosin Adarabioyo before he completed his free transfer to Chelsea and also have an interest in Nice star Jean-Clair Todibo.
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Greal deal
West Ham have been offered the chance to sign a player dubbed ‘the Portuguese Grealish’.
It is shaping up to be a busy summer at London Stadium as new manager Julen Lopetegui attempts to put his own stamp on the side.
The Hammers are in the final stages of completing a £30m deal for teenage Brazilian midfielder Luis Guilherme.
Sporting director Tim Steidten is also weighing up whether to pursue a move for Vitoria Guimaraes wide man Jota Silva.
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Portuguese international Silva also has interest from Roma but would prefer a switch to the Premier League.
Battle to be Burnley boss
Liam Rosenior is rapidly becoming one of them most-sought after out-of-work managers in England.
Rosenior was brutally sacked by Hull after they missed out on a Championship play-off place on the final day of last season.
Wayne Rooney’s former Derby assistant has since been approached by Plymouth and Sunderland, but has so far been reluctant to jump straight back into the dugout.
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talkSPORT now understands Rosenior is a contender to replace Vincent Kompany at Burnley along with Frank Lampard.
Life of Ryan
Newcastle are ready to negotiate a pay-off with Ryan Fraser to facilitate the Scotland international’s move to Southampton.
Former Bournemouth winger Fraser is keen to return to the south coast and join Saints after helping them to promotion whilst on loan.
However, Fraser still has a year left to run on his £60,000-a-week deal at St James Park and is unlikely to walk away with nothing.
Saints have already held talks with Newcastle about signing Fraser permanently.
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