Manchester United Transfer News Roundup: Red Devils confident of Jarrad Branthwaite move; club want Miguel Gutierrez, and more - April 26, 2024

Manchester United are putting together final preparations ahead of their Premier League tie against Burnley at Old Trafford on Saturday, April 26. Erik ten Hag's men arrive at the game buoyed by their 4-2 win over Sheffield United in midweek.

Meanwhile, the Red Devils are confident of securing the services of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer. Elsewhere, the English giants are interested in Girona left-back Miguel Gutierrez.

On that note, here's a look at the key Manchester United transfer stories as on April 26, 2024:

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Manchester United confident of Jarrad Branthwaite move

Jarrad Branthwaite is wanted at Old Trafford

Manchester United remain confident of securing the services of Jarrad Branthwaite this summer, according to Football Insider.

The English defender has been one of the rare shining lights for Everton this season, Branthwaite has registered 37 appearances across competitions for the Toffees this season, all of which have been starts. His efforts have earned him admirers at multiple clubs across the continent, including the Red Devils.

The English giants are looking to bolster their backline before the start of the new campaign. With Raphael Varane's future up in the air and Harry Maguire also linked with an exit, the club are already monitoring multiple candidates ahead of the summer. Branthwaite has been identified as an option and could be on the move at the end of this season.

Everton are under financial distress and may have to offload players before June 30 to balance their books for the 2023/24 season. The 21-year-old defender remains their best bet for raising significant funds, and Manchester United are confident that an offer of £60-70 million could do the trick.

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Red Devils want Miguel Gutierrez

Miguel Gutierrez has admirers at Old Trafford

Manchester United are interested in Miguel Gutierrez, according to GIVEMESPORT.

The Spanish left-back has been on a roll with Girona this season, registering one goal and eight assists in 35 outings across competitions. His efforts have forced United to take note, with the left-back position a major cause of concern this season. Tyrell Malacia is yet to kick a ball this campaign, as he remains sidelined with injury, while Luke Shaw's absence, also due to fitness issues, has hurt the team.

Erik ten Hag has had to deploy Diogo Dalot as the left-back, while Sofyan Amrabat, Victor Lindelof, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and even Antony have had to fill in when required.

The Red Devils are keen to address the situation at the end of the campaign and have set their sights on Gutierrez. However, they face competition from Arsenal and West Ham United for the 22-year-old.

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Ajax eyeing Erik ten Hag return

Ajax are interested in bringing Erik ten Hag back to the Johan Cruyff Arena, according to De Telegraaf.

The Dutch manager is under sustained pressure at Manchester United at the moment, following a poor second season. The Red Devils are at risk of missing out on a top-four place but have reached the FA Cup final. The situation has raised doubts about Ten Hag's continuity with the club, and Ajax are ready to offer him an escape route.

The Eredivisie giants have endured a difficult season as well and are set to part ways with current head coach John van 't Schip this summer. They have created a three-man shortlist for his replacement, which includes former manager Ten Hag.

The Dutchman enjoyed great success with Ajax during his five-season stay at the club, winning three league titles and two Dutch Cups. Should his time at Old Trafford end this summer, he could consider a return to his former hunting ground.