According to the Daily Mail, Manchester United are one of the teams keeping an eye on Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who is presently on a season-long loan at PSV Eindhoven.
In the summer transfer window, the Red Devils might go on another spending binge, and manager Erik ten Hag would be looking to strengthen several positions.
Given the rumours that Harry Maguire may consider leaving the team at the end of the season, it is possible to pursue a new centre-back. Branthwaite, who has established himself as a consistent centre-back for PSV since the start of the year, is being closely monitored by United.
Last month, PSV attempted to sign him for roughly £15 million but was unsuccessful. It is now believed that the Toffees will evaluate the player’s status after his brief stay. Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez are the current strong centre-back pairing for United, with Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire serving as the backup options.
Ten Hag might wish to add another left-footed centre-back before the 2023–24 season so that Martinez can have some much-needed rest. After the World Cup, Luke Shaw has played in the position frequently, but Ten Hag may prefer that the Englishman stay in his usual left-back position.
Therefore, the club could try to sign Branthwaite this summer. He is still only 20 years old, but since joining the team regularly under manager Ruud van Nisterooy, he has made good improvements.
Branthwaite has a great aerial presence and has made an impression with his line-clearing skills. Additionally, he has averaged one tackle and one interception per game.
Given that PSV’s £15 million offer failed to test Everton’s resolve in January, if they were to consider selling him this summer, they would undoubtedly expect an improved offer from United.
