
DOUBLE DEAL COMPLETED đĽâ ď¸
DONE DEALâ ď¸: Manchester United finally completes double transfer signings after Gyokeresâ snub â The players are both ready to be announced
Manchester United have wasted no time in reshaping their squad for the upcoming season, securing a double deal that signals the beginning of what promises to be a busy and transformative summer at Old Trafford. After weeks of speculation, and following Viktor GyĂśkeresâ high-profile snub, the Red Devils have completed the signings of two key targetsâboth of whom are expected to be officially announced in the coming days. Sources close to the club confirm that all contractual formalities are complete, medicals passed, and personal terms agreed.
The identities of the players, while kept under wraps until the clubâs planned unveiling, are widely believed to be a central midfielder and a versatile defenderâtwo positions Erik ten Hag had urgently prioritized in his summer rebuild strategy. These transfers not only reinforce Manchester Unitedâs tactical blueprint but also reflect the clubâs new approach to smart, purposeful recruitment rather than extravagant headline-chasing.
Moving On from GyĂśkeres
Manchester United’s pursuit of Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor GyĂśkeres was one of the earliest sagas of the 2025 transfer window. With 43 goals in all competitions last season, the Swedish forward was earmarked as United’s marquee signing to bolster the attack. However, complications arose over the player’s hefty release clauseâbelieved to be over âŹ100 millionâand the playerâs desire to play Champions League football elsewhere.
After United backed away from negotiations, many feared it could delay their overall transfer strategy. Instead, the club quickly shifted focus and accelerated talks with their secondary targetsâdisplaying decisiveness and clarity in their scouting and decision-making, a refreshing change from previous chaotic transfer windows.
Who Are the New Signings?
While fans eagerly await the official announcement, insiders have all but confirmed that the two players signed are JoĂŁo Neves, the highly-rated Benfica midfielder, and Jarrad Branthwaite, the left-footed centre-back from Everton.
JoĂŁo Neves â The Midfield Engine
At just 20 years old, JoĂŁo Neves has already carved a reputation as one of Europeâs most promising young midfielders. Coming through the Benfica academy, Neves is known for his composure on the ball, tactical awareness, and relentless work rate. United scouts have followed him closely over the past year, impressed by his maturity and ability to control the tempo of matches.
His addition will add depth and dynamism to Unitedâs often-criticized midfield. Casemiroâs declining form and Christian Eriksenâs fading influence have left a gap in both defensive coverage and creative progression. Neves is expected to compete for a starting role immediately and may even partner with Kobbie Mainoo to form the future midfield axis at United.
Reports suggest United have paid in the region of âŹ65 million for Neves, a fee Benfica were unwilling to reduce given his pivotal role in their system. Still, for United, this is seen as a long-term investment with high upside potential.
Jarrad Branthwaite â Defensive Reinforcement
The second completed deal is the acquisition of Jarrad Branthwaite, the commanding Everton centre-back who impressed many with his calmness under pressure and aerial prowess during the 2024â25 Premier League season. The 21-year-old England international had been linked with several top clubs, but United’s persistenceâand perhaps their willingness to match Evertonâs valuationâproved decisive.
Branthwaite brings much-needed balance to the back line. With Raphael Varane departing, Harry Maguire’s uncertain future, and Lisandro MartĂnez facing recurring injury concerns, United needed a dependable, left-footed defender who could slot into Ten Hag’s ball-playing defensive system. Branthwaite fits the bill, offering not only strong defensive fundamentals but also composure in possession and the ability to initiate attacks from the back.
The fee is believed to be around ÂŁ45 million with add-ons, a significant investment but one that addresses a glaring hole in the current squad.
Ten Hagâs Vision Starts to Take Shape
Erik ten Hag made it clear after last seasonâs turbulent campaignâmarked by inconsistency, injuries, and fan unrestâthat systemic change was required. Manchester Unitedâs sixth-place finish and early Champions League exit underscored the need for a younger, more physically dominant squad with better technical ability.
With these two signings, the Dutchman is beginning to shape the team in his image. There is a clear move away from expensive, aging stars to younger players with high ceilings and long-term value. This shift also aligns with INEOSâ strategy under Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is pushing for a more data-driven, sustainable transfer policy.
The arrivals of Neves and Branthwaite suggest that the club is moving quickly and efficiently this windowâlearning from the drawn-out sagas of previous summers. The fact that both deals have been wrapped up before pre-season is also crucial, allowing Ten Hag to integrate the players early and build cohesion ahead of a critical season.
Whatâs Next for United?
With these two deals secured, Manchester United’s attention now turns toward the striker position. The club remains in the market for a top-class centre-forward to provide competition and support for Rasmus Højlund. While GyĂśkeres is off the table, other names have emerged, including Joshua Zirkzee of Bologna and Lilleâs Jonathan David.
Additionally, there are expected outgoings to balance the books. Donny van de Beek, Facundo Pellistri, and Jadon Sancho are all likely to be moved on, while United will entertain offers for Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire should the right bids arrive.
Goalkeeping is another area under quiet review. While AndrĂŠ Onana had an inconsistent first season, the club remains confident in his long-term potential. However, a backup keeper will likely be brought in, with Altay BayÄąndÄąr expected to leave in search of regular minutes.
Fan Reaction and Club Morale
Initial fan response to the news of the double deal has been overwhelmingly positive. Many supporters feel that the arrival of two promising young talents signals a return to the clubâs rootsâinvesting in youth, building for the fut
ure, and maintaining a strong, attacking identity.
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