In a recent report, The Sun stated that Manchester United are in pole position to land Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite. It has been claimed that the Red Devils are leading the race to sign the English centre-back in the summer.
Branthwaite’s Impressive Run Of Form At Goodison Park
Branthwaite has managed to put in a string of dominant performances at the heart of Everton’s backline. The 21-year-old has made 34 appearances for the Toffees this season, netting two goals in all competitions.
The English defensive ace has proven his worth on the defensive end of the field by averaging 1.9 tackles, 1.6 interceptions and 4.5 clearances per game in the Premier League. He has even been tidy with his ball distribution after completing 79% of his attempted passes in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Merseyside club will expire in the summer of 2027. Therefore, Man United would have to make a big offer if they are serious about recruiting Branthwaite later this year.
Should Manchester United Go For Branthwaite?
Branthwaite is a tough-tackling defender who can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when the opposition are on the front foot.
The English talent can use his strong 1.95m frame to win his fair share of aerial duels and is proficient at playing his way out from the back. However, he is still quite inexperienced at the highest level. Still, we can expect him to bring more bite and steel to Man United’s defensive department next season.
Branthwaite already knows the Premier League well and won’t take much time to settle into life at Old Trafford if the Red Devils can get a deal done for him in the summer. However, Man United would have to be patient with his progress before they can unlock the best out of the youngster in the long run.
At 21, the English youngster has the potential to become a future star in English football. Therefore, the Mancunian club would be wise to go for Branthwaite when the transfer window reopens at the end of this campaign.
