Man Utd transfer boost as club 'can't afford' new contract for key target as 'talks held' with Sporting CP man

Manchester United are on the cusp of a new era, following the arrival of Ruben Amorim as their new head coach. For now, they are being led by Ruud van Nistelrooy, who will take charge at the weekend against Leicester City - what is happening in the Old Trafford rumour mill today?

Manchester United have a long standing interest in a centre back who currently plays in the Premier League. His current club do not have the finances to give him a new contract - opening the door for the Red Devils to make a move.

Additionally, United are also in pursuit of a Sporting CP wonderkid - but they will be joined by Arsenal, who are also competing for his signature in the upcoming transfer windows.

Everton ‘can’t afford’ to offer United target Jarrad Branthwaite new deal

United’s interest in Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite is well documented at this point. While they failed to bring him on board over the course of the summer transfer window, a new revelation has taken place that could bolster their chances of snapping him up in January.

According to a recent report from the Daily Mail, Everton ‘cannot afford’ to hand the 22 year old a new contract, due to their ongoing financial situation. With no way to tie him down with a new deal, it could open the door for United to make a move for Branthwaite’s signature.

Despite this, Branthwaite will remain under contract with Everton until the summer of 2027. They are under no pressure to move him on - but if he requests a move away from Goodison Park, the Toffee’s hand may be forced.

Branthwaite’s game time has been limited this season, due to a groin injury he suffered before the campaign commenced. He has started in just one Premier League game this season, but is slowly being reintegrated into Everton’s matchday squad.

Arsenal join race to sign Sporting CP wonderkid Geovany Quenda

Manchester United have linked with a host of Sporting CP stars following the appointment of Ruben Amorim. One of them is 17 year old wonderkid Geovany Quenda - but the Red Devils are far from the only interested party.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Arsenal have entered the race for Quenda’s signature. They aren’t the only ones, either - Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea are also thought to be in the race. It may be difficult for any of these teams to complete a transfer, as he signed a contract extension with Sporting back in September - this new deal will not expire until 2027.

Quenda announced his arrival on the elite stage earlier this week - he put forth a masterful display against City in the Champions League, notching up an assist en route to their astonishing 4-1 win over the reigning Premier League champions.

So far this season, Quenda has already cemented himself as a regular first team starter for Sporting, despite his young age. He has made 17 appearances across all competitions for the Verde e Brancos over the course of the 2024/25 campaign, scoring two goals and notching up two assists along the way.