Manchester United must be proactive in the pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite amid ‘genuine interest’ from Real Madrid.
The Red Devils are likely to pursue a marquee centre-back this summer and Branthwaite is currently the top target on their transfer shortlist.
However, they are not alone in the hunt for the 21-year-old with Dean Jones recently claiming that Madrid have a ‘genuine interest‘ too.
Los Blancos manager Carlo Ancelotti previously managed Branthwaite and handed him his debut at Everton. This could hand an advantage to Madrid.
In our opinion, the Red Devils must be pro-active in the chase for the England youth international to avoid losing his services to the La Liga heavyweights.
United must secure early transfer deal for Branthwaite
Branthwaite has established himself as one of the best young centre-backs in the Premier League.
He has been a mainstay in the Toffees’ line-up this term after a wonderful loan spell at PSV Eindhoven.
The centre-back has won an impressive 68 per cent of his duels alongside two tackles per appearance.
Meanwhile, he has registered 1.6 interceptions, 4.2 clearances and 5.8 recoveries per league game.
Branthwaite still needs to improve on his distribution (79 per cent). That should happen with more experience and the presence of better players around him.
In our view, it appears a no-brainer to sign the youngster. He is predominantly a left-sided centre-back, but can also operate from the right centre-back position.
The Toffees are currently eyeing around £75 million, but United could take advantage over their current financial woes to negotiate a lesser package this summer.
They must look into a deal as soon as the domestic transfer window reopens. If they decide to buy time, there is every chance that Madrid could hijack the transfer.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
