New Manchester United Chief Omar Berrada Blocks Signing of Major Target
The summer transfer window has been a whirlwind of excitement for Manchester United fans, with the Red Devils securing five major new signings under the guidance of new chief executive Omar Berrada. But it’s emerged that Berrada was instrumental in blocking the club’s pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, citing the need to stick to firm valuations.
Berrada made the switch from Manchester City earlier this summer, and his first major transfer window has been hailed as a success. The arrival of players like Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, and Manuel Ugarte has strengthened Erik ten Hag’s squad and silenced critics.
However, one player who didn’t quite make the cut was Branthwaite, with United making multiple bids for the Toffees man. Despite an initial bid of £35 million plus add-ons being declined, United refused to budge, and a second offer of £45 million and £5 million in extras was also turned down.
According to ESPN, Berrada was adamant that United wouldn’t overspend on a player, even if it meant missing out on Branthwaite. United valued the defender at between £50 million and £60 million, which fell below Everton’s minimum £75 million valuation.
In an interview, Berrada explained the club’s stance: "We were quite disciplined about the valuations we were giving to the players who were going to come in. We stuck to those valuations. The reason I mention that is if you make a mistake and overspend, or get a player who can cost you too much, it can set you back."
It’s clear that Berrada is committed to building a sustainable and responsible squad, and his willingness to walk away from deals that don’t meet his valuation expectations is a welcome change from the reckless spending of the past.
What do you think, Red Devils fans? Are you happy with the signings this summer, or do you think Berrada was right to block the pursuit of Branthwaite? Let us know in the comments!
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