Manchester United could look to capitalise on Everton’s recent issues by pursuing several of their most valuable stars. The Toffees were given a 10-point deduction for breaching the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules earlier this week, though that may not be the end of their problems.
Reports have circulated that Everton could be sued for approximately £300million by three former Premier League clubs, Leicester, Burnley and Leeds. The three sides were relegated to the Championship in a tight-knit relegation battle last season, but Everton being hit with a point deduction would have seen them face the drop.
If the clubs are successful in suing Everton, it is expected to shake Sean Dyche’s side to the core – and selling players would be one of the key ways that they could raise funds – which could be music to the ears of several clubs.
United are among those that are in desperate need of reinforcements, and they could ‘help’ kickstart Everton’s fire sale. Erik ten Hag is keen to bolster his ranks in the January transfer window and inject a fresh spark into his injury-ridden squad following an underwhelming start to the campaign.
At least one defender is expected to arrive in January, with numerous options being assessed by the higher powers at Old Trafford. Jarrad Branthwaite is among those to have been linked with United, and the young centre-back could now be attainable.
The 21-year-old has shone in Everton’s defence, with his ability to play out from the back and fuel attacks likely to prove attractive to Ten Hag, who is insistent on his team building from deep and working the ball forward gradually.
