🚨⚽Why Omar Berrada Blocked Manchester United’s Potential £75 Million Transfer

As Manchester United enters a new chapter under Ineos, the club’s approach to transfers has significantly evolved. This summer, the Premier League powerhouse aimed to accomplish two main goals: end the notorious ‘Manchester United tax,’ where they traditionally overpay for top targets, and enhance their capability to offload players no longer in the team’s plans. With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and a restructured management team leading the way, the club has made notable progress in both areas.

Omar Berrada, the newly appointed Manchester United CEO, has been instrumental in this change. Known for his financial expertise from his tenure at Manchester City, Berrada is already making a significant impact at Old Trafford. His most notable action this summer? Blocking a potential £75 million transfer for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.

At the start of the transfer window, Branthwaite was Manchester United’s primary central defensive target. However, Everton turned down two offers from the Red Devils, with the final bid being around £50 million. The Toffees stood firm on their £75 million asking price, leading United to abandon the deal—a sharp departure from previous summers when the club might have acquiesced, as seen with players like Harry Maguire and Antony.

Berrada’s strategy was different. Nicknamed ‘the No Man’ for his firm stance on overpriced players, Berrada was adamant that United should not exceed £60 million for Branthwaite. He compared this case to Manchester City’s pursuit of Josko Gvardiol, who had already proven himself globally. Although Gvardiol commanded a £77 million fee, Branthwaite, despite his potential, had not yet shown the same level of consistency or experience.

Instead, Manchester United acquired Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro for a combined £90 million—two highly promising defenders expected to strengthen Erik ten Hag’s squad. Whether Branthwaite would have been a better fit remains to be seen, but under Berrada’s careful oversight, Manchester United seems to be moving towards a new era of prudent spending, prioritizing value above all.

Berrada’s financial acumen, developed during his time at Manchester City, is already altering the transfer dynamics at Old Trafford. By avoiding overpayment, he ensures the club sidesteps expensive errors and maximizes the value of each investment. The era of inflated prices may be over for Manchester United, heralding a more strategic and financially responsible phase.