Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a swoop to sign Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, as per the Daily Mail.
After finishing third in the Premier League last campaign, the Red Devils decided to revamp the midfield department this summer. However, they have struggled with defensive frailties thus far this season.
United currently have Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martínez and Ayden Heaven as centre-back options. However, De Ligt has struggled with a back problem over the last 11 months.
On the other hand, Maguire and Martínez have entered the final year of their respective contracts. The Argentinian international’s future has even become uncertain following his recent criticism of United’s sporting director, Jason Wilcox.
Yoro, meanwhile, has failed to break into Michael Carrick’s starting line-up, while Heaven is still very young and needs time to develop.
Now, the Daily Mail report that Man Utd could look to reinforce their centre-back position in January but would need to make room by selling players, with Branthwaite among their targets.
Although United don’t want to part ways with Martínez, they could ultimately opt to let him leave due to his recent fitness problems, and he may attract a decent offer.
Branthwaite to Man Utd
United previously attempted to buy the Englishman a couple of years ago, but Everton refused to let him leave. Having recently tied him down to a fresh term until 2030, the Toffees are in a strong position to demand a huge fee if they are forced to cash-in in January.
Branthwaite is a 6ft 5in tall left-footed centre-back but can provide cover in the left back position if needed. He is extremely quick, strong, good in the air, comfortable playing out from the back, and is efficient in defensive contributions.
The 24-year-old is a talented player and a Premier League-proven defender. However, he has struggled with hamstring problems in recent years. Therefore, Man Utd need to be very careful about that before making a potential swoop.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Old Trafford club eventually make a concrete approach to secure his services in January or next summer.
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