AliousManchester United may shift their focus to Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Max Kilman if their pursuit of Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite proves unsuccessful, according to transfer journalist Dean Jones.
Initially, United reportedly made a £35 million bid for Branthwaite, which Everton promptly rejected, demanding at least £70 million for the 21-year-old England defender.
Despite the significant gap in valuations, United remain optimistic about securing Branthwaite at their preferred price.
However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, United’s minority co-owners, have apparently identified alternative targets should the Branthwaite deal fall through.
Kilman, who has also caught West Ham’s attention, is among these secondary options.
Jones suggests United might “join the conversation more seriously for Max Kilman if their main defensive targets are unfeasible.”
Wolves are reportedly willing to part with Kilman for around £45 million, closer to United’s valuation for Branthwaite.
Kilman’s journey to the Premier League is noteworthy, having been signed from non-league Maidenhead United for just £40,000 in 2018.
The 27-year-old left-footed defender has since become a key player for Wolves, featuring in every game of the 2023/24 season.
His left-footedness could make him a potential competitor for Lisandro Martinez in Erik ten Hag’s defensive setup at United.
As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether United will persist with their pursuit of Branthwaite or pivot to alternatives like Kilman.
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