Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick
Manchester United have made new contact with Jarrad Branthwaite's camp as they step up their interest in the Everton defender, according to TEAMtalk.
The Red Devils made their move for the centre-back back in 2024 but failed with two bids, including a second offer worth up to £50m for the 24-year-old.
Branthwaite's transfer valuation has only increased since then due to the fine performances he has produced for David Moyes' side and United will have to pay big money if they are to lure him to Old Trafford.
TEAMtalk report that Everton have little desire to sell their centre-back, who they value in the £80m bracket.
As well as interest from Michael Carrick's side, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are also keen on the ex-Carlisle United defender.
Branthwaite, who last summer penned a fresh contract with Everton until 2030, has enjoyed an excellent start to the season and he could now be in contention for a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the UEFA Nations League fixtures against Spain, Czechia and Croatia.
Due to his age and experience he has amassed in the Premier League, a potential move by Manchester United to sign Branthwaite could help address their issues at centre-back.
The club spent the summer giving their midfield a much-needed refresh and next the focus will be on doing the same in defence.
Very little has changed in United's backline in recent years and more needs to be done if they are to compete for top honours on a regular basis once again.
Branthwaite can transform United's backline
jarrad branthwaite
jarrad branthwaite
Much has been made of United's need to make big changes at the back in order to get back to their previous heights and it perhaps came as a surprise that they did not look to address the issue back in the summer.
Whether it is in January or the summer of 2027, the Red Devils need to transform their backline and they can do that by completing a deal for Branthwaite if they can pip other interested clubs to his signature.
The former PSV loanee is, first and foremost, an outstanding defender but he is also excellent on the ball and can use both feet, with his pace another huge bonus.
Very few attackers get the better of him due to his physique, pace and ability to read the game, thus making him the perfect defender for Manchester United.
However, Everton won't let him go on the cheap and interested parties will likely have to pay in excess of £80m to sign the highly-rated centre-back.