Manchester United are compelled to rethink their plans for a major defensive overhaul after a controversial outburst from defender Lisandro Martinez. Following public criticism directed at the hierarchy and technical director Jason Wilcox, the Argentine's departure now seems unavoidable, prompting the club to look for a financial return in the upcoming January transfer window.
Initially, owners INEOS had slated a comprehensive revamp of the defence for 2027, planning to focus on attacking options in 2025 and midfield in 2026. However, with the summer transfer window leaving the left-back and central forward positions lacking reinforcements, coupled with the irreconcilable rift between Martinez and the club, United are accelerating their moves in the market.
According to reports from the Daily Mail, the Red Devils have reignited their pursuit of Everton central defender Jarrad Branthwaite. The Toffees are valuing the England international at £80m, which could see him join Harry Maguire as the most expensive defender in history.
A second immediate target is the left side of defence, with United eyeing Bournemouth's French defender Adrien Truffert, for whom the Cherries are asking around £60m. In total, this double January transfer could cost Manchester United a staggering £140m.
