Man Utd 'under pressure' to sign Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite as list of defensive transfer targets dwindles

Following a report earlier this month of an opening £35 million ($44m) bid being turned down, it is now claimed by GiveMeSport that United are expecting to make a fresh offer after struggling to make headway with alternative targets in the meantime.

The clearest blow has come regarding the threat of red tape surrounding OGC Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo. But there stands to be major competition from Real Madrid for Lille prodigy Leny Yoro, while even possible pursuits of Max Kilman, Marc Guehi, Gleison Bremer and Antonio Silva are unlikely to be straightforward. With a new centre-back crucial to cover the loss of Raphael Varane, it seems to be putting more pressure on pulling off a deal for initial target Branthwaite.

Branthwaite started his career by playing nine games for Carlisle United in League Two when he was just 17. Everton quickly saw his potential, signing the talent in 2020. But it wasn't until this past season, after a loan spell with PSV Eindhoven, that he established himself as a regular with the Toffees.

Branthwaite's surprise omission from England's final Euro 2024 squad could be a boost in any attempts to sign the player, given that he is not wrapped up in the tournament until into July. The summer transfer window for Premier League clubs already opened on June 14 and will run until August 30. United also ideally need to target a striker and midfielder before the deadline.