Manchester United have rekindled their interest in Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, with fresh reports indicating the club are weighing up a significant move for the defender.
TalkSPORT has revealed that United retain a firm interest in Branthwaite, as the club look to address persistent defensive vulnerabilities heading into the transfer window.
United invested heavily in midfield during the summer but neglected their defensive options, a decision that has visibly hurt them in the early stages of the current campaign.
The Red Devils have conceded seven goals across their opening four Premier League matches, a run that has exposed real frailty at the back.
Four of those goals came against newly promoted sides Hull City and Ipswich Town, which underlines just how vulnerable United’s defensive unit has become.
Manchester United had two bids rejected for Branthwaite in 2024, including an offer worth £50 million, before eventually turning their attention to alternative targets.
Despite that failed pursuit, interest in the Everton defender has not gone away, with journalist Ben Jacobs reporting that United held talks with Branthwaite’s camp in February to reaffirm their position.
According to Jacobs, “there was a meeting with the Branthwaite camp in February,” with it being “reiterated from the player’s side that his interest in Manchester United hasn’t gone away.”
Everton are said to “feel calm about the situation,” with Branthwaite currently focused on his recovery and return to full fitness following recent injury issues.
The left-footed centre-back has attracted attention from multiple clubs thanks to his combination of physicality and composure in possession, making him one of the most sought-after defenders in the Premier League.
According to the Daily Star, Branthwaite is United’s first-choice option to replace Harry Maguire, though the Red Devils will face competition from rivals Liverpool in any potential transfer battle.
Manchester United are now reportedly weighing up a move worth as much as £65 million to secure the Everton defender and finally resolve their long-standing defensive concerns.