Manchester United have not had the best of times in transfer windows in recent seasons. Their business, especially in terms of buying, has been a disaster class on how a top club must not operate and they will be looking to make amends this summer.
Among the many positions that the club is lacking quality in, at the moment, the central defence is not one of them. Ruben Amorim has the likes of Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, Noussair Mazroui and Ayden Heaven to count on, in this regard.
While it is not a pressing necessity to address this summer, Man Utd could look at a potential target for the CB position next summer. As per Daily Mail via Manchester Evening News, the Red Devils could return for long-term transfer target Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Jarrad Branthwaite has committed his long-term future to the Toffees by signing a new five-year contract until the end of June 2030. 💙 pic.twitter.com/4Uzvx0F7m0
— Everton (@Everton) July 2, 2025
Man United were interested and made two bids for the centre-back last summer, both rejected by Everton, who saw the 22-year-old as untouchable following his breakout season under Sean Dyche. The player since signed a new contract with the Toffees but will have a release clause of £70 million next summer.
Everton handed Branthwaite a bumper five-year deal to keep hold of him for the time-being. However, the English defender has negotiated a favorable release clause into his contract valid from 2026, which gives him a certain power over his future. Meanwhile, he can gain even more experience leading the backline for the Toffees.
A defensive leader?
A potential future defensive leader, Branthwaite is strong in aerial duels, composed in possession and being left-footed, he is a rare profile who can open up new passing lanes at the back. All these qualities make him an appealing asset to the top clubs around Europe and Man Utd are no exception.
Branthwaite’s release clause offers Man Utd a clear defensive target for the future. By then, hopefully, they have addressed other areas on the pitch that might not have the same kind of depth and quality. That said, they also need to get back to Champions League football this season.
A player like Jarrad Branthwaite is likely to have a lot of top clubs circling him, if he becomes available for £70m. Although Man Utd continue to retain a certain appeal, they can do even better if they manage to secure European football and try and convince the 22-year-old next summer. It remains to be seen how this transfer saga plays out.