Manchester United are already preparing the first new signing for Michael Carrick's replacement at Old Trafford, with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite reportedly a top target for the Red Devils.
After a difficult period with injuries over the last 18 months, Branthwaite has put concerns about his fitness behind him by starting the first seven games of Everton's Premier League campaign.
Long-Standing Interest in Branthwaite
Manchester United have long admired the 24-year-old, having seen two bids rejected for the centre-half in the summer of 2024 following Branthwaite's breakthrough season in the Premier League.
With Carrick's tenure at Old Trafford nearing its end, Football Insider reports that Manchester United have placed Branthwaite at the top of their list for a rebuild under a new manager.
Capped three times by England, Branthwaite is under contract at Everton until the summer of 2030, with the Toffees likely to demand a fee of around £80million for his services.
Defensive Rebuild Priority
After overhauling their attacking options ahead of the 2025-26 season, Manchester United reinforced their midfield this summer, bringing in Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos for a reported combined fee of £155million.
Now, the Red Devils want to address their defence, which has been plagued by injury-prone players and poor performances. Centre-half Lisandro Martinez cast doubt over his Manchester United future when he criticised the club's technical director Jason Wilcox for supposed failings in the transfer market.
Since Wilcox joined the club, Manchester United have spent over £350m on new signings, with the only defensive additions being wing-back Patrick Dorgu and young centre-back Ayden Heaven in February 2024.
Fitness and Rival Interest
Veteran Luke Shaw has faced fitness doubts for many years, while Harry Maguire has been a divisive figure due to his performances for the club. Branthwaite made just 10 Premier League appearances last season as he dealt with a recurring hamstring issue.
The Barnsley academy product's quality is such that Merseyside rivals Liverpool have been attributed with an interest. Liverpool have not signed a player directly from their rivals since the £800,000 capture of Abel Xavier in 2002.
