Manchester United are targeting defensive reinforcements in the summer and have identified a top English defender as a primary target. The club is reportedly willing to spend more than £50 million to secure Jarrad Branthwaite next season.
Despite Everton’s reluctance to sell last summer, United remain determined to land the 22-year-old. Everton rejected two concrete offers from United, including a second bid of £45 million plus £5 million in add-ons, as they were holding out for an offer closer to £70 million.
Branthwaite has expressed interest in a move to Old Trafford but has one condition—he will only join if the club secures Champions League qualification. This goal could be achieved via the Europa League. His ambition to play in Europe’s elite competition stems from his desire to impress England manager Thomas Tuchel and cement his place in the national squad.
With a contract running until 2027, Everton are in no hurry to sell. Branthwaite made his England debut in June last year but was omitted from Tuchel’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia, further fueling his determination to play at the highest level.
United initially pursued a more affordable defensive option after failing to acquire Branthwaite. However, the situation changed when Lisandro Martinez suffered a season-ending ACL injury, raising concerns over his long-term fitness. Martinez had already missed significant portions of his first two seasons at Old Trafford due to injuries.
In January, the club extended Harry Maguire’s contract until 2026 after his resurgence in form. However, with Maguire now 32, United must look toward the next generation of defensive talent. Talks were held over a potential bid for Branthwaite in January, but United opted to be more financially conservative. Instead, they spent £29.4 million on wing-back Patrick Dorgu and £1 million on Ayden Heaven from Arsenal.
The need for defensive reinforcement remains a priority as United aim to build a squad capable of competing for top honors domestically and in Europe. Branthwaite’s profile as a left-footed center-back makes him an attractive prospect, and securing his services would be a statement of intent for the club’s long-term defensive strategy. Whether United will meet Everton’s valuation remains to be seen, but the pursuit of Branthwaite continues to be a focal point in their transfer planning.
