Erik ten Hag gets brutal Man United transfer update as huge £130m Ineos decision looms

Manchester United look to be actively working on a number of deals for several transfer targets with the summer window now in full flow. Jarrad Branthwaite is one priority target for Erik ten Hag with an opening proposal of £43million already rejected by Everton, though a comeback offer is expected to follow soon.

Considering the Toffees' asking price is between £70m and £80m, the second bid will likely also be rejected with Sir Jim Ratcliffe adamant on not meeting that figure amid the club’s stance within spending rules. With the stance of both clubs in mind, alternatives are being considered with Goncalo Inacio, Leny Yoro and Marc Guehi all linked.

Alongside recruiting in midfield, Ten Hag wants to sign a new defender and striker ahead of the 2024/25 season. Benfica starlet Joao Neves is one option in the middle of the park, though his triple-figure release clause looks to be outside of United's financial capabilities.

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With that in mind, as is the Branthwaite case, United look to have drawn up some alternatives with Amadou Onana, Morten Hjulmand and Edson Alvarez all of interest. The latter of those names is certainly an intriguing one as Alvarez played under Ten Hag at Ajax for three years.

However, just as interest begins to become concrete, United may have to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements after the West Ham star was forced off just 30 minutes into Mexico's Copa America opener against Jamaica.

With a scan to come over the next few days, United face an anxious wait alongside Alvarez's club and country before pursuing their summer transfer plans. The worst-case scenario for United is that the 24-year-old is out for a few months, as it would not only scupper any plans to bring him in but also allow West Ham to have him available again early into the 2024/25 season.

If that happens, it could force Ineos into a huge defensive transfer decision with Branthwaite and Yono appearing to be the two top targets. Real Madrid are leading the race for the £50m-rated Lille defender but both United and Liverpool are waiting in the wings.

As for Branthwaite, after years of overpaying, United's new transfer methods will truly be tested. With the start of pre-season already getting closer, Ten Hag will undoubtedly want signings through the door promptly which could place added pressure on Ratcliffe to wrap up deals quickly.