Former Manchester United star Louis Saha has tipped Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite to join the Red Devils during the summer transfer window.
Branthwaite has been a long-term target for the Red Devils. The centre-back agreed personal terms last summer, but a move did not materialise due to the £70 million price tag.
The 22-year-old has continued to be linked with United. Speaking in an interview, Saha said that the Englishman is a ‘terrific player’ and he ‘deserves’ to secure a big move.
The former France international added that the challenge is much bigger at United, and Branthwaite will need to hit the ground running from the off.
He said: “Branthwaite, I think he’s been linked for almost two years now. Yes, he’s a terrific player.
“He wants to improve. He wants a big move, I think, and he deserves it. So I would see this move as something that makes sense.
“But at the same time it’s a step up, so you really need to improve because the challenge is bigger. No disrespect with Everton but the pressure is way higher at United.
“Any player United signs this summer, defender, midfielder, forward, all of them need to hit the ground running, adapt well, and play with confidence. There’s pressure on United’s transfer strategy.”
United could part ways with multiple centre-backs this summer. Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans have their contracts expiring on June 30 and could leave on free transfers.
Meanwhile, Lisandro Martinez has been on the sidelines since February. He underwent surgery for a serious knee injury and may not return to action until late 2025.
Manager Ruben Amorim could urge the hierarchy to spend big on another centre-back. Branthwaite would be a quality acquisition based on his progress at Everton.
The defender has won an impressive 65 percent of his duels this campaign. He has averaged 6.5 clearances and three recoveries per league game alongside 1.5 tackles.
Branthwaite has also caught the eye with his ball-playing ability. He has a passing accuracy of 82 percent, but that should improve with more possession at the Red Devils.
As per FBref, the Toffees have commanded just 40.3 percent possession this campaign. In comparison, United have an average of 53 percent despite their league struggles.
Branthwaite is a left-footed central defender but can operate anywhere in central defence.
He has a good right foot and has been described as ‘two-footed’ and ‘very complete’ by manager Ruud van Nistelrooy when the two were together at PSV Eindhoven.
United did not come close to meeting the £70m price tag for Branthwaite last summer but could be willing to do so this time to compensate for exits and Martinez’s injury.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
