Manchester United have been handed a timely reminder to reconsider signing Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
It was reported recently that Man United met with Branthwaite’s agents in February to discuss a potential transfer this summer or in 2027.
The Red Devils believed he could be an ideal replacement for Harry Maguire, who was awarded a new one-year contract earlier this month.
Branthwaite sustained damage to his right hamstring against Liverpool on Sunday.
It is now revealed that he will miss the remainder of the season and will not be part of the England squad for the FIFA World Cup.
Injury history makes Branthwaite a risky target
The 23-year-old is a bright prospect and has been a key pillar for Everton over the last three seasons.
However, his growing injury record raises serious doubts about his suitability as a transfer target.
Branthwaite spent the first half of the campaign on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
He underwent surgery in October and has played only 10 Premier League games this season.
The centre-back was not susceptible to injuries earlier but has struggled over the last two campaigns.
He spent 138 days on the sidelines due to a groin injury last term. He has already missed 163 days because of hamstring setbacks this campaign.
United are already dealing with a number of injury-prone defenders.
Matthijs de Ligt has missed more than half of the campaign with persistent back problems.
Lisandro Martinez returned to action only in November due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. He was out of action for another month in 2026 due to calf issues.
At 33, Harry Maguire has also struggled with minor injuries and is no longer suited to playing twice a week consistently.
Given these factors, United may be better off prioritising more reliable defensive options in the transfer market.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com