Manchester United have identified Juventus star Gleison Bremer as their number one target for the summer transfer window.
The Red Devils are planning to bolster their central defensive department and they have been linked with both Bremer and Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite this month.
However, i Sport claim that Bremer is the top priority for United. The Brazilian signed a new deal in December, but it has a release clause of €50 million (£43m).
The club would still need to meet his wage demands and overcome competition from Real Madrid, who are also admirers of his performances this campaign.
United have not ruled out the prospect of signing Branthwaite too, but that would depend on player sales. The club are aiming to recoup at least £100m.
Bremer would only be a short-term signing
The Brazilian has been one of the best performing centre-backs in Serie A. He has completed 87 per cent of his passes this term, winning 59 per cent of his duels.
He has also averaged four clearances. 5.3 recoveries and 1.7 tackles per outing. Despite his impressive statistics, we are not totally convinced over an approach.
Bremer will be 27 in a few days’ time and he may need some time to adapt coming from Serie A where it is more tactical and less intense than the Premier League.
Taking this into regard, Branthwaite would be a better acquisition in our view. Everton are eyeing £75m, but United are hopeful of agreeing a deal worth £50m.
Branthwaite may be left-footed but he has played as a right centre-back (on loan at PSV Eindhoven).
He would be better value for money and should be signed over Bremer if United are prioritising just one marquee central defender for the summer transfer window.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
