The news of Lisandro Martínez’s ACL injury has sent shockwaves through Manchester United, leaving Ruben Amorim with a defensive headache that could define the club’s summer transfer plans. The Argentine’s expected six-month absence not only robs United of their most composed and combative centre-back but also exposes a glaring need for a left-footed defender to balance the backline.
As the Red Devils prepare for a pivotal summer under INEOS’ stewardship, one name continues to dominate the conversation: Jarrad Branthwaite. The Everton starlet, who has been a revelation this season, represents the ideal blend of youth, Premier League experience, and technical quality to fill the void left by Martínez. But with Everton determined to keep their prized asset, securing his signature will be no easy task.
Martínez’s Injury: A Blow to Amorim’s Plans
Martínez’s injury couldn’t have come at a worse time for United. The 26-year-old, affectionately dubbed “The Butcher” by fans, has been a cornerstone of Amorim’s defensive setup, offering a unique combination of tenacity, ball-playing ability, and leadership. His absence leaves a gaping hole in the heart of United’s defence, compounded by Luke Shaw’s recurring fitness issues.
With Martínez unlikely to return until late 2024, Amorim must act decisively in the transfer market. A left-footed centre-back isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity to maintain the balance and structure of United’s backline.
Jarrad Branthwaite: The Perfect Fit
Branthwaite’s rise at Everton has been nothing short of meteoric. The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most promising defenders, combining physicality with composure on the ball. Standing at 6’5”, he offers an aerial presence that Martínez lacks, while his left-footedness ensures seamless integration into Amorim’s system.
His performance in the Merseyside derby against Liverpool was a masterclass in defensive maturity. Tasked with containing Mohamed Salah and Darwin Núñez, Branthwaite held his ground, making crucial interceptions and showcasing his ability to play out from the back under pressure. It was a display that underlined why United have been tracking him for over a year.
Everton’s Stance: A Battle to Keep Their Star
Despite Branthwaite’s growing reputation, Everton are determined to retain their defensive linchpin. The Toffees, who value the Englishman at £70 million, rejected two bids from United last summer and remain hopeful of convincing him to stay as they prepare to move into their new stadium.
“Everton remain hopeful that Branthwaite will stick with them as they move into a new stadium,” reports Givemesport. However, with his contract set to expire in 2027 and multiple clubs circling, the Merseyside club faces an uphill battle to keep him.
For United, Branthwaite’s homegrown status and Premier League experience make him an ideal target under INEOS’ transfer strategy. The club’s preference for young, domestically proven talent aligns perfectly with the Everton star’s profile.
The Financial Hurdle: Can United Afford Branthwaite?
While Branthwaite fits the bill on paper, his £70 million price tag presents a significant obstacle. United’s financial constraints, exacerbated by their need to address multiple positions including striker and midfield mean that splurging on a single defender may not be feasible.
The club’s hierarchy must weigh the urgency of signing a left-footed centre-back against the broader needs of the squad. With Martínez’s injury adding to the defensive crisis, the case for prioritising Branthwaite is compelling, but it will require careful financial planning.
Alternative Options: Marc Guéhi and Beyond
If Everton’s valuation proves prohibitive, United could turn to Crystal Palace captain Marc Guéhi. The 23-year-old, another homegrown talent, has been a consistent performer for the Eagles and offers similar qualities to Branthwaite. Like his Everton counterpart, Guéhi is comfortable on the ball and excels in one-on-one situations, making him a viable alternative.
However, Guéhi’s lack of left-footedness means he wouldn’t provide the same natural balance as Branthwaite. Other options, such as Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting Lisbon) or Piero Hincapié (Bayer Leverkusen), could also come into consideration, but their lack of Premier League experience may deter INEOS.
The Bigger Picture: A Summer of Tough Decisions
Martínez’s injury has thrust United’s defensive frailties into the spotlight, but it also presents an opportunity to address a long-standing issue. Branthwaite’s arrival would not only provide short-term cover but also lay the foundation for a future-proof backline.
However, with Everton digging in their heels and financial constraints looming large, Amorim and INEOS face a delicate balancing act. The decision to pursue Branthwaite or opt for a more affordable alternative will have far-reaching implications for United’s rebuild.
Conclusion: A Defender Worth Fighting For
Jarrad Branthwaite represents everything Manchester United need in a centre-back: youth, quality, and Premier League pedigree. His potential arrival would soften the blow of Martínez’s absence and signal a statement of intent from INEOS.
Yet, as Everton’s £70 million valuation looms large, the question remains: can United afford to miss out on a player who could define their defence for the next decade? For Amorim and the Red Devils, the stakes have never been higher.
Quotes sourced from Givemesport. Statistics via Opta.
