Manchester United pulled off arguably the most sensational transfer of the summer so far when they signed Leny Yoro from LOSC Lille.
The Real Madrid-bound center-back was convinced of United’s project in a huge statement of intent by the new ownership regime.
That has left United in a position where more purchases will have to be funded by sales due to their precarious financial situation, a legacy of the Glazers.
Therefore, Matthijs de Ligt’s move has been put on hold, while Jarrad Branthwaite had become a non-starter due to Everton’s demands.
However, latest shock development at the Merseyside could have massive ramifications for the deal.
Everton in peril again
It all looked rosy at Everton when they sold Amadou Onana for £50 million after June 30th to fix their accounts for the next financial year as well.
Their stance was hardened further as they were also looking forward to welcoming new owners at Goodison Park after years of financial mismanagement under the previous regime.
Friedkin Group’s takeover of the club was considered a matter of when, and not if, which would undoubtedly lead to a much healthier financial outlook for them.
So much for that…
David Ornstein of The Athletic reports the sensational development that their takeover is now off, as they are concerned by the amount of debt on the club.
He says it puts the club back in a “precarious” position, which, while not ideal for them, spells an opportunity for United.
Enter Man United
If the level of debt is so huge that the takeover itself is off, then Everton might have to sell more than just Onana in this window as a marquee sale.
Branthwaite is inarguably their biggest asset and his homegrown status makes it so that any fee received for him will be pure profit on the books.
United’s last bid for the player for £45 million plus £5 million in add-ons, which was rejected out of hand by the Toffees.
If United were to make a slightly increased offer, perhaps up to £60 million, then it could well be taken as an olive branch by Everton who are living dangerously.
They have consistently valued the player in the bracket of Harry Maguire, and Wesley Fofana, who went for close to £80 million but United will themselves probably accept that was an overpay.
Fofana’s move hasn’t been a success either for there was probably always room for negotiations which should soften now.
A fee in the ballpark of Leny Yoro would be great business as Branthwaite is more polished, left-footed, and Premier League-experienced. One of those days where it’s acceptable to revel in the misery of another.
