Manchester United want Everton's defensive leader
Manchester United's latest defensive collapse has put one familiar transfer target firmly back in the spotlight.
Details: According to TEAMtalk, Manchester United have made fresh contact with the representatives of Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite as they continue their long-standing pursuit of the 24-year-old England international. United have tracked the defender for several years and submitted two bids for him in 2024, while Everton currently have little intention of selling and value their key centre-back at around £80 million.
The report has gained even more attention after Manchester United's painful 3-2 home defeat to Brighton in the Carabao Cup. Michael Carrick's side led 2-0 inside the opening ten minutes at Old Trafford but allowed the visitors to complete a dramatic comeback and were eliminated in the third round.
Young centre-backs Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven started together in defence and came under heavy criticism in the English media for their performance. However, TEAMtalk's report about renewed contact with Branthwaite's camp was published before the Brighton match, so the cup defeat cannot be presented as the direct reason for United stepping up their interest.
Branthwaite remains one of United's long-term options as the club plans the future of its central defence. Manchester City, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are also reported to be monitoring the Everton defender. It is worth noting that Branthwaite signed a new five-year Everton contract in July 2025, keeping him at the club until June 2030 and leaving the Toffees in a strong negotiating position.
Reminder: Carrick disaster! Manchester United dramatically crash out of the Carabao Cup
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
