Jason Wilcox holds the key to Manchester United landing Jarrad Branthwaite | OneFootball

Manchester United’s defence has been a shambles throughout the season with the Red Devils conceding three or more goals 13 times this season.

The 20-time English league champions have faced 225 shots this year, more than any other side in Europe’s big-five leagues. Last weekend, Bournemouth managed 20 in the 2-2 draw.

Erik ten Hag’s faulty high-transition style has put the backline under enormous pressure with the rest of the team struggling to hold on to the ball while the midfield has been easy to play through.

It is clear to see that changes are needed and new co-owners INEOS are getting ready for a big summer transfer window and for that to be a success, they are focussing all their energy into getting the structure at the club just right.

Defensive overhaul

Omar Berrada is set to join as the new CEO while Dan Ashworth will be the new sporting director but the timing of his arrival remains a mystery.

The club are also trying to bring in Jason Wilcox as technical director from Southampton with Fabrizio Romano confirming recently that the appointment will happen.

And his arrival could hold the key in United’s pursuit of in-demand Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite as per The Mirror.

Despite some wobbly displays and concerns over his asking price, the England international’s potential is a huge draw for multiple sides including Real Madrid, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur just to name a few.

But Wilcox has a great relationship with Branthwaite’s agent David Reeves and that could hold the key regarding the club the centre-back ultimately chooses in the summer.

Wilcox key in Branthwaite deal

“Manchester United are hoping the arrival of Jason Wilcox to strengthen the club’s recruitment team will give them an edge in the race to land Everton’s £70 million-rated defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

“The former Premier League-winning winger has a close working relationship with Branthwaite’s agent David Reeves – and United believe his appointment will secure the instant bonus of helping them to attract Branthwaite to the club. Wilcox worked with a number of Reeves’ clients when he was at the Etihad.”

Whether United ultimately plump for the 21-year-old remains to be seen. INEOS want young British players and Premier League proven stars but so far, the Toffees’ asking price sounds excessive.

There have been recent reports of Jean-Clair Todibo being a more attractive option due to his lower price and his INEOS connection. It will be interesting to see which centre-back the Reds sign this summer.

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