Manchester United could reshape their defence next season with the arrivals of Lewis Hall and Jarrad Branthwaite for a combined £160 million, while Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez depart. The proposed changes would give manager Michael Carrick a back four of Diogo Dalot, Leny Yoro, Branthwaite and Hall, with Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire providing experienced cover and Ayden Heaven continuing his development.
Pressure mounts after poor start
United's difficult start to the 2026/27 campaign has intensified the case for defensive investment. Two months into the season, the optimism from last term's surprise third-place finish has faded, with the team in the bottom half of the Premier League table and struggling in the Champions League. Carrick faces mounting pressure only months after his permanent appointment.
Captain Bruno Fernandes appeared to question Carrick's tactics after the midweek Champions League defeat at Como. A week earlier, Martinez had criticised senior club figures for failing to strengthen the squad adequately over the summer.
Left-back priority
United concentrated their summer recruitment on midfield, signing Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, leaving the defence short of improvements. Left-back is the most pressing issue, with the club relying on 31-year-old Luke Shaw as first choice despite his long-standing fitness concerns.
Hall, a 22-year-old England international, remains a primary target for director of football Jason Wilcox and Ineos. Newcastle told United he was unavailable in the summer, and reports suggest he could cost north of £80 million. Hall is reportedly interested in moving to Manchester and remains keen, giving United reason to test Newcastle's resolve again.
Shaw could feature for the rest of this season, but United should look to sell him in the summer, recognising his 12 years of service. With 12 months left on his deal, a decision on his future is approaching.
Centre-back change
Lisandro Martinez was reportedly considering his departure even before his criticism of Wilcox and the club hierarchy. Atletico Madrid were linked with him during the summer, and interest from Spanish clubs remains. The 28-year-old favours La Liga, with United said to be weighing up whether to let him leave. His contract expires next year, though the club can trigger a 12-month extension to secure a transfer fee.
Branthwaite, who TEAMtalk claim costs around £80 million, is the obvious replacement. United are understood to be considering another approach for the Everton defender after having two bids worth up to £50 million rejected in 2024. Aged 24, the left-footed centre-back brings Premier League experience and has earned a place in England's recent Nations League squad.
Alongside him, Yoro is showing signs of progress despite his red card against Atletico Madrid. De Ligt remains a useful option when fit, while Maguire offers leadership and professionalism. United are expected to activate the extra year in the 33-year-old's contract, allowing him to guide Yoro and Heaven.
Dalot and Mazraoui may not be outstanding options at right-back, but it is less urgent than the problems on the opposite flank and at centre-back. Hall and Branthwaite would address those priorities directly and give Carrick a stronger platform from which to rebuild.
