Man United handed major boost in pursuit of Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite

Man United’s hopes of signing Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite have been handed a potentially significant boost.

Following what has been an impressive breakthrough campaign at the heart of the Toffees’ defence, Branthwaite, 21, has emerged as a top target for Erik Ten Hag’s Red Devils.

In line to make a high-profile transfer in the summer, the 21-year-old, who is an outsider to make Gareth Southgate’s next England squad for this month’s two friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, is on course to become United’s next big-money signing.

Man United handed major Jarrad Branthwaite transfer boost

And according to a recent report from Football Insider, the 20-time league winners’ chances of landing the Carlise-born defender have been boosted due to Everton identifying Hull City’s Jacob Greaves as the ideal direct replacement.

Not only do the Toffees rate Greaves, but they’re now favourites to sign the 23-year-old after Spurs’ interest cooled following their recent signing of Radu Dragusin from Genoa.

Consequently, with Everton already on the lookout for new defenders to fill the potential void left by Branthwaite, United fans will feel their club is in a great position to poach the 21-year-old, who has already started in 25 Premier League games for Sean Dyche this season.

Raphael Varane could be the player to make way at Old Trafford. According to a report from TEAMtalk, new investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe is willing to cash in on the former Real Madrid ace for around £20 million.