13 February 2024 , 17:42
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Manchester United have identified Jarrad Branthwaite as their primary summer transfer target following his impressive breakthrough at Everton.
Erik ten Hag is expected to be backed in the summer transfer window after the Red Devils failed to strengthen in January and it has already been outlined that the Dutchman has designs on overhauling his defensive options, with both Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans out of contract at the end of the season.
There are also doubts over the long-term future of Victor Lindelof, whose contract was extended by 12 months earlier in the campaign. He could still be sold, especially given United in the market for two young centre-backs.
That's according to a new report from The Mail, who claim that Branthwaite has emerged as United's top target. The highly-rated 21-year-old has enjoyed a fine season for Everton and is attracting interest from other top clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea and Real Madrid.
While United also have other names in mind to bolster their defence, it's outlined in the report that Branthwaite is United's primary target. Tottenham, like United, are also pushing hard to sign the centre-back ahead of the summer window.
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Branthwaite has already been given a glowing endorsement from United icon Ruud van Nistelrooy, who coached the youngster during his stint on loan at PSV Eindhoven.
The former PSV head coach said of Branthwaite last year: "He is a great talent. The boy is young, but he has a future. He is good on the ball, can play on the left or the right of centre-back because he is two-footed. He has height and speed, so he is very complete."
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Branthwaite played under Ruud van Nistelrooy at PSV Eindhoven (NESimages/Perry vd Leuvert/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)As well as renovating their defence, United are also in the market for attacking reinforcements and Crystal Palace 's Michael Olise is a target.
Wolves wide-man Pedro Neto has also been touted as a possible signing according to the same report, although it should be noted that - like with Brantwaite - there is plenty of rival interest in the Portuguese star, who is also admired by Arsenal and Manchester City.
Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt, who previously worked with Ten Hag at Ajax, is also understood to be on Manchester United's radar and is seemingly surplus to requirements at the German champions.
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