Manchester United are reportedly pushing to sign Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite before the January transfer window closes for business.
There will be changes to the defensive department at Old Trafford this year, with both Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans out of contract in June, while Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire face uncertain futures.
Lisandro Martinez is arguably the only centre-back at the club guaranteed to be there next season, and it is possible that a couple of new players in that area of the field could arrive as part of the rebuild under incoming minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Man United are believed to have a long-term interest in Branthwaite, who has made a strong impression for Everton during the 2023-24 campaign.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Erik ten Hag's side are attempting to sign the Englishman before the January transfer window closes for business on Thursday night.
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The report claims that Everton, due to their financial problems, have signalled that they would be willing to let Branthwaite leave for £40m plus bonuses.
Head coach Ten Hag is said to be an admirer of the defender and is 'actively pushing' for a deal to be completed before the end of the winter market.
The 21-year-old only signed a new contract at Goodison Park in October 2023, with his terms at Goodison Park due to run until the summer of 2027.
Branthwaite has been a key player for Everton this season since breaking into the first team at the end of August, making 25 appearances in all competitions, including 19 outings in the Premier League.
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The defender made the move to the Toffees from Carlisle United in 2020, spending time out on loan with Blackburn Rovers and PSV Eindhoven before breaking into the first team at his Merseyside club.
Real Madrid have also been credited with an interest in the England Under-21s international, who has helped Everton keep clean sheets in their last two Premier League matches.
Man United head coach Ten Hag said last week that his club would not be making any signings before the end of the January window due to financial restrictions.
The Red Devils have had a number of defensive injuries this season, but Martinez, Varane, Maguire and Evans are all set to be available for Thursday's Premier League clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Matt Law
