Potential blow on the cards for United as priority target could be persuaded into staying at his club for another season

Everton are bracing themselves for a flurry of outside interest in their highly-rated centre-half Jarrad Branthwaite this summer.

Manchester United have joined Newcastle United and Real Madrid in targeting the 21-year-old over the forthcoming window, although it remains to be seen if any of the clubs will put their money where their mouths are and table an offer for the player.

He’d certainly be welcomed with open arms by the Old Trafford faithful, as his potential arrival would come after one of the most debilitating injury crises we’ve seen for a long time; the backline has undoubtedly been hit the hardest in recent weeks, which has led to Casemiro having to deputise in central defence alongside Harry Maguire.

A Premier League-proven, physically robust option like Branthwaite would slot straight into Erik ten Hag’s starting 11, while also keeping in line with the youthful core that the manager is trying to promote. The likes of Rasmus Hojlund (21), Kobbie Mainoo (19) and Alejandro Garnacho (19) are all integral starters week in, week out.

However, the Toffees are now fresh off the back of securing their top-flight survival and will be looking to oversee a campaign free from the stresses of potential relegation or further points reductions – and Branthwaite would be vital to that.

Football Insider claims that Everton are doing their utmost to ensure the Englishman stays put at Goodison Park for at least one more season. On the other hand, United believe a bid in the region of £60-70 million would be enough to prise him away from the club.