Man Utd to REIGNITE Branthwaite transfer this summer

Manchester United will reportedly revive their interest in Jarrad Branthwaite this summer, with Ruben Amorim’s side confident they can convince the Everton star to be their ‘next defensive kingpin’.

United had heavily pursued Branthwaite last summer and had a number of bids turned down by Everton, who were believed to have been asking for a fee of around €80 million.

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Since then, the 22-year-old has had a mixed campaign, having played 90 minutes just once before November due to injury, but Everton have not been able to convince Branthwaite to extend his contract.

With just two years remaining on his deal, Everton could cash in on Branthwaite this summer after yet another disappointing season and The Sun claim that the Toffees now value the defender closer to €60m.

The report states that Branthwaite is keen to move to a club in the Champions League in order to strengthen his World Cup ambitions, having been left out of Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad this month.

Despite United needing to lift the Europa League this season in order to qualify for the Champions League, the Red Devils are said to be confident they can beat Tottenham to Branthwaite’s signature.

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After establishing that they could not meet Everton’s asking price, United opted to move for defenders Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt last summer but they have still continued to maintain a strong interest in Branthwaite.

With Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof likely to depart Old Trafford this summer, United will look to sign another centre-back, particularly a left-sided one after Lisandro Martinez suffered an ACL injury earlier this year.

Everton are thought to have an option in Branthwaite’s contract for another year but they are still unlikely to stand in his way if an offer meeting their valuation comes in, with David Moyes’ side currently in 15th place.

But with United operating under tight constraints, it may take some creative negotiating for them to convince Everton to part ways with Branthwaite if they wish to orchestrate a full rebuild of Amorim’s squad this summer.