Manchester United are looking to add to their centre-back department this summer, and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that a move for Jarrad Branthwaite is still a possibility, with the Everton man agreeing to the move himself.
Prior to Raphael Varane’s departure, Erik ten Hag had every intention of bolstering his central defense alternatives as a result of their injury-plagued season, which saw Jonny Evans, Willy Kambwala, and others play more minutes than envisaged.
The former Ajax goalkeeper, who has extended his contract until June 2026, will be hoping to stamp his authority on the English Premier League after winning two domestic trophies in a row.
Branthwaite remains on Man United’s shortlist.are eyeing at least one centre-back in the coming months.
“If Everton keep asking £70 million, Man United will not do it, but if Everton, at some point of the summer, will drop the price of Jarrad Branthwaite, there is still a possibility for Manchester United to go also for Branthwaite.
“Because, as I told you months ago, Man United will sign at least one centre-back, but could really be two, especially if one more centre-back leaves the club after Raphael Varane.”
Branthwaite’s 23/24 Premier League Stats vs Everton Squad
Metric
Output
Squad Rank
Minutes
3,420
=1st
Pass success rate (%)
80.1
7th
Overall rating
6.90
3rd
Clearances per game
4.5
2nd
Aerials won per game
2.7
3rd
Tackles per game
1.9
6th
Interceptions per game
1.4
2nd.
to an end, is one of the names on the list, though it is their arch rivals Liverpool who are reportedly leading the Premier League race for the Saint-Maurice-born technician.
Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot celebrating with a winners medal
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Romano, while speaking exclusively to GIVEMESPORT, has insisted that Manchester United boss Ten Hag is a keen admirer of the attainable Frenchman, with his interest spanning across a two-year period.
A key figure in Didier Deschamps’ Euro 2024 squad, Rabiot – since emerging from the Paris Saint-Germain academy ranks – has chalked up 452 senior club appearances but could be set to complete a career-reviving move this summer.
Manchester United are looking to strengthen their central defense this summer, with Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton being a notable target. According to Fabrizio Romano, Branthwaite is open to the move, but the deal hinges on Everton lowering their £70 million asking price. Erik ten Hag, facing an injury-plagued season that saw unexpected players like Jonny Evans and Willy Kambwala get more minutes, is keen on adding at least one, possibly two, centre-backs following Raphael Varane’s departure.
Branthwaite’s performance in the 2023/24 Premier League season was impressive, leading in several defensive metrics within the Everton squad. However, negotiations depend on Everton’s willingness to reduce their transfer fee demands.
In addition, Manchester United have also offered a three-year contract to Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot, whom Ten Hag has admired for the past two years. Rabiot, a significant presence in Didier Deschamps’ Euro 2024 squad, could be poised for a move that would revive his career.
