Man United ‘lead the race’ to sign Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite – sources
Man United are in pole position to sign Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the summer window, sources have told Football Insider.
It is believed Erik ten Hag and his recruitment staff have made the 21-year-old a long-term target.
Branthwaite is thriving in his first season as a Premier League regular for Everton despite their ongoing fight against relegation.
A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Man United are “leading the race” for his signature as several Premier League sides prepare approaches in the off-season.
The England Under-21 star has made 26 appearances across all competitions so far in the 2023-24 campaign.
He notched the equaliser for the Toffees on Saturday (3 February) as they held Tottenham to a 2-2 draw.
Branthwaite has played the full 90 minutes in 20 of the last 21 league games this term.
The defender signed a fresh deal at Goodison Park in October 2023 but Man United and other top Premier League sides are preparing a move.
Branthwaite spent last season out on loan at PSV Eindhoven and helped them win the Dutch Cup, making 36 appearances in total.
The Eredivisie giants were desperate to keep the centre-back permanently but saw their approaches refused by Everton.
Man United, who will allow Raphael Varane to leave on a free transfer this summer, sit sixth in the Premier League.
The Red Devils also have Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Jonny Evans and Lisandro Martinez to call on at centre-back.
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