Manchester United are interested in signing Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton in the upcoming summer transfer window.
According to the Daily Mail, the Red Devils are ready to spend £55 million to secure Branthwaite’s services.
The 21-year-old has had a breakthrough season with the Toffees, making 40 appearances across all competitions.
He has been rewarded for his impressive displays with an England call-up.
United must enter crunch talks with Everton because they won’t let their star player go easily.
Jarrad Branthwaite could be an ideal fit for Man United
The Red Devils are prioritising signing a robust defender. Raphael Varane has announced his departure from Old Trafford in the summer.
Jonny Evans’ current deal expires in a few weeks. There are also question marks over the futures of Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire.
Branthwaite could be the perfect acquisition for the Red Devils as they want a young and skilful centre-back.
However, £55m won’t be enough to force Everton to cash in on the defender.
Another stumbling block for United could be the lack of Champions League football. Their recent poor run in the league has put them in the eighth spot.
Manchester City and Real Madrid are also chasing his signature, and Everton would love a bidding war for the England international.
United are also targeting the signing of Tosin Adarabioyo, whose contract with Fulham will expire at the end of this campaign.
The 26-year-old is an exciting alternative as United would not have to pay a transfer fee.
The Red Devils could sign Branthwaite and Adarabioyo if there are multiple outgoings in the heart of the defence.
Recruitment has been United’s Achilles heel, and they must be smart about how they operate this summer.
