Both Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly assessing Danish striker Martin Braithwaite as the January transfer window approaches its conclusion. The 32-year-old, currently plying his trade for Spanish second division outfit Espanyol, has piqued the interest of the Premier League clubs.
Reports from Spain indicate that Braithwaite, the top scorer in LaLiga 2 this season with 12 goals in 22 games, could potentially be available at a discounted price. Despite possessing a release clause of £6 million, his contractual arrangement allows him to depart Espanyol without a fee should the club fail to secure promotion.
However, in the event of Espanyol making a triumphant comeback to Spain’s top flight, a sum of £510,000 would be required for a club to secure the striker’s services.
Reliable sources suggest that negotiations are underway with both Manchester United and Chelsea, as both clubs explore the possibility of acquiring Braithwaite. Progress has reportedly been made to ensure that the Premier League teams do not have to meet the seven million euros specified in the Danish forward’s release clause.
In addition to his on-field prowess, Braithwaite has also found success off the pitch. The striker is reported to have a net worth of £216 million, owing to a series of business ventures. He has invested in real estate and operates a clothing business called ‘Trente’ in collaboration with his wife, Anne-Laure Louis, a French entrepreneur, journalist, and television personality.
With the lure of English football opportunities and the chance to represent Denmark at the upcoming European Championship, Braithwaite has emerged as a highly sought-after talent in the waning days of the transfer window.
As negotiations continue between both Manchester United and Chelsea in their quest to secure the services of the striker, the final days of the January window promise to be an enthralling and competitive period for the Premier League clubs.