Real Madrid are reportedly giving serious consideration to making a move for Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite during this summer's transfer window.
Branthwaite was given his Everton debut by Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti in 2020, and it is understood that the Italian is a huge admirer of the England international.
The 22-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Manchester United last year, but the Red Devils were unwilling to meet Everton's asking price, which is believed to have been in the region of £75m.
Branthwaite has again been in strong form for the Toffees this season, making 21 appearances in all competitions, and he has been exceptional in Everton's recent run of four wins from their last five matches in England's top flight.
The defender has a contract at Goodison Park until June 2027, with the option of a further 12 months, but Everton are believed to be bracing themselves for offers from the Englishman.
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Real Madrid 'interested in summer move for Branthwaite'
Real Madrid will move for a new centre-back this year, with Eder Militao out with another long-term knee injury, while there are concerns when it comes to David Alaba's fitness, as the Austrian recently spent more time out with a muscular issue after more than 12 months on the sidelines with a serious knee injury.
According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate and Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen are targets for Real Madrid, but the Spanish and European champions are also extremely keen on Branthwaite.
The report claims that Everton rejected offers in the region of £50m for Branthwaite from Man United last summer, holding firm on their £75m valuation, and it is likely that will again be the price for interested clubs this year.
Real Madrid are believed to be determined to lower the age of their squad, and Branthwaite fits the brief when considering the type of centre-back signing that the club are looking to make at the end of the season.
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Are Man United still interested in Branthwaite?
Man United are expected to move for a new centre-back this summer, as Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans are both set to leave on free transfers, while Lisandro Martinez is a long-term absentee due to a serious knee injury.
The Red Devils are currently lacking a left-footed centre-back with Martinez out injured, while Luke Shaw, who is another option in that area, continues to have ongoing fitness problems.
Branthwaite is believed to be a long-term target for Man United, with the club considering reigniting their interest this summer, but the Red Devils have other priorities in the market, so it is difficult to imagine them being in a position to pay £75m for a new centre-back at the end of the campaign.
Matt Law
