# Manchester United defensive transfer interests

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/manchester-united-defensive-transfer-interests
> Updated: 2026-10-21T15:38:18.000Z. Sources: 9. Developments: 3.

Manchester United has identified several targets to strengthen its defensive line ahead of the January transfer window. The club is reportedly monitoring AS Roma defender Wesley Franca, a 23-year-old Brazilian international valued at approximately €60 million. Wesley is considered a versatile option capable of playing as both a right wing-back and a left-sided defender.

In addition to Wesley, Manchester United is exploring Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton as a primary target to potentially replace Lisandro Martinez, whose future at the club is uncertain following reported tensions with leadership regarding transfer investment.

Competition for Wesley has intensified, with Arsenal, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, and Chelsea also monitoring the player. Despite interest from several Premier League clubs and European sides like Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, and AC Milan, AS Roma reportedly maintains a strong negotiating position. The Italian club has expressed “no intention of selling the defender during the upcoming January transfer window,” which may require interested parties to wait until the summer. Wesley remains under contract with Roma until 2030.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-21: Manchester United and Arsenal target Roma defender Wesley

Manchester United and Arsenal are interested in Roma wing-back Wesley, but the Italian club intends to reject bids during the January transfer window.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/manchester-united-and-arsenal-target-roma-defender-wesley

### 2026-10-21: Manchester United targets defensive reinforcements

Manchester United is targeting Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite and AS Roma's Wesley Franca to bolster its defense.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/manchester-united-targets-defensive-reinforcements

### 2026-10-18: Arsenal and Manchester United track €60m Roma defender Wesley

Arsenal, Manchester United, and Newcastle United are tracking AS Roma defender Wesley Franca, whose market value has risen to €60 million due to his versatility in Serie A.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/arsenal-and-manchester-united-track-60m-roma-defender-wesley

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Cite as: Manchester United defensive transfer interests. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/manchester-united-defensive-transfer-interests