Manchester United have reportedly reignited their interest in rising Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite who was high on their shortlist last summer.
The 22-year-old is a Carlisle United youth product who was snapped up by the Toffees in 2021. After spending two campaigns on loan at Blackburn Rovers and PSV Eindhoven, the centre-back returned to Goodison Park and has been a staple at the club ever since.
The towering defender was already linked with an exit last summer, with Man Utd said to be hot on his heels. But he eventually remained at Everton, while the Red Devils ended up signing Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro as their two main defensive reinforcements, before adding Ayden Heaven to their ranks in January.
But according to CaughtOffside, United are still keen to sign Branthwaite who has continued to impress this season.
The England international has been earning plaudits from the likes of Alan Shearer who described his displays as ‘magnificent’.
Nevertheless, the source warns Man Utd of competition from the likes of Liverpool and Real Madrid who are also said to be in the fray, even though Branthwaite’s Everton allegiance means he’s unlikely to land at Anfield Road.
Man Utd still interested in signing Jarrad Branthwaite
The report believes the Red Devils will try to fork out a convincing bid to lure the central defender to Old Trafford, but they may have to spend a figure in the region of £50 million.
The source also notes that, despite signing three centre-backs in the past 12 months, United could still do with another defender, especially with Ruben Amporim playing with three at the back.
Moreover, the club is expected to part ways with Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof who are running on expiring deals, while Harry Maguire is already on the wrong side of 30. As for Lisandro Martinez, his ACL injury means his return date remains undefined.
Hence, Branthwaite could be the ideal profile to link up with Yoro and De Ligt at the back, and let’s not forget about Heaven who has already made quite an impression in his handful of outings.
