In a recent print edition, Mundo Deportivo (Page 12) mentioned that Manchester United are in pole position to sign Everton ace Jarrad Branthwaite this summer. It has been stated that the Red Devils are eyeing a move to bring the English talent to Old Trafford later this year.
Branthwaite’s Impressive Form For Everton This Season
Branthwaite has enjoyed a solid campaign at the Merseyside club as he has been responsible for producing a handful of dominant displays for them on the defensive third of the pitch. The 21-year-old has made 40 appearances for Everton this season, scoring three times across various competitions.
The English defensive ace has proven himself to be a rock at the back and deserves a lot of credit for averaging 1.9 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 4.4 clearances per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has even been tidy when distributing possession from inside his half after making 80.2% of his attempted passes in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
Branthwaite is under contract at the Merseyside club until the summer of 2027. Thus, Man United would have to make a big offer if they are serious about recruiting him at the end of this campaign.
Is Branthwaite A Decent Option For Manchester United?
Branthwaite loves a tackle and can scan the danger well to make some important interceptions for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot and is proficient at playing his way out from the back.
Standing at 1.95m, the English talent can use his robust frame to win a few 50-50 aerial duels for his team. He has already proven himself to be a capable defender in Premier League football. Therefore, he would be a welcome addition to Man United‘s backline this summer if they can find a way to get a deal done for him.
Branthwaite would add more bite and steel to the Mancunian club‘s defence and could help the Red Devils cope with fixture congestion better in the coming seasons. At 21, he is destined to have a bright future in England, so he would be an excellent option for the Mancunian giants to pursue at the end of this campaign.