Transfer Centre

Manchester United 'learn of £51m release clause in contract of top summer target'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 13 April 2024

Man Utd 'learn of £51m release clause in contract of top summer target'

Juventus centre-back Bremer, who is being linked with Manchester United, allegedly has a release clause of £51m in his current contract.

Juventus centre-back Bremer reportedly has a release clause of €60m (£51m) in his current contract, with Manchester United determined to sign him during this summer's transfer window.

At least one central defender will arrive at Old Trafford in the upcoming market, as Raphael Varane is seemingly set to leave on a free transfer, while Jonny Evans also only has a deal until the end of June.

Bremer has been heavily linked with a switch to Erik ten Hag's side in recent weeks, with the 27-year-old believed to have been identified as a top summer target for the 20-time English champions.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Man United have learned that there will be a release clause of €60m (£51m) in the Brazil international's contract this summer.

The report claims that the Red Devils made contact with Juventus in the latter stages of the January transfer window to discuss a move, although a mid-season transfer was ultimately not possible.

Juventus defender Bremer pictured in May 2023 © Reuters

Tottenham Hotspur are also believed to be admirers of the South American, but the strongest interest this summer is expected to arrive from Old Trafford.

Bremer made the move to the Old Lady from Torino in July 2022, and he has represented his current side on 75 occasions in all competitions.

The centre-back has a contract with Juventus until the summer of 2028, but the alleged release clause will place the Italian giants in a vulnerable position heading into the upcoming market.

Bremer has been a vital player in Turin during the 2023-24 campaign, making 32 appearances in all competitions, with 30 of those outings coming in the top flight of Italian football.

Juventus' Bremer celebrates scoring their first goal with Moise Kean on November 11, 2023 © Reuters

What is the current centre-back situation at Old Trafford?

As mentioned, Varane and Evans are out of contract at the end of June, and it does appear that both players will be leaving the club on free transfers.

There is also speculation surrounding the futures of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, and it would not be a surprise to see one of those leave the club in the upcoming market.

Lisandro Martinez will be at the club next season, but the Argentina international has had a torrid 12 months in terms of injuries, and there are concerns over the issues which he is picking up.

As a result, there will be at least one centre-back addition, but it would not be a shock to see a second arrive.

Man United currently have an injury crisis in the middle of their defence, with Varane, Evans, Lindelof and Martinez all unavailable for selection.

Willy Kambwala made his second Premier League start of the season in the 2-2 draw with Liverpool last weekend and will continue alongside Maguire for Saturday's clash at Bournemouth.