Manchester United have reportedly moved a step closer to the acquisition of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
The 22-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Goodison Park last term, starting 35 Premier League matches for the Toffees as they comfortably avoided a relegation battle, despite being deducted eight points for breaching Profit and Sustainability rules.
Foundations for Brathwaite's stellar season in England were laid during a much-needed loan spell at PSV Eindhoven during the 2022-23 campaign, when the defender picked up plenty of knowledge from a year in the Eredivisie, making 36 appearances across all competitions for the Eindhoven-based club.
Following his rise to a key asset for Sean Dyche's men, the youngster was rewarded with his first call-up to a senior England squad earlier this year, with the centre-back making his debut for Gareth Southgate's Three Lions in a friendly win over Bosnia Herzegovina at St James' Park on June 3.
Branthwaite was part of England's 33-man preliminary squad for this summer's Euro 2024 in Germany, however the Everton man was one of seven to be cut from the group, with Southgate preferring the versatility of Ezri Konsa and Joe Gomez to provide backup for starters John Stones and Marc Guehi.
Man United 'agree' personal terms with Everton's Branthwaite
According to Football Insider, Man United are edging towards the signing of Everton star Branthwaite this summer, tackling one key hurdle between the Red Devils and the acquisition of the defender.
The report claims that the 22-year-old has agreed to personal terms with Erik ten Hag's troops, who are looking to significantly bolster their backline ahead of the new term.
It is understood that Branthwaite will be on a salary of £160,000 per week at Old Trafford, representing a massive wage increase compared to his current deal at Goodison Park.
Standing in the way of a move to the Theatre of Dreams for the one-time England international is the inability of the two clubs to shake hands on a suitable transfer fee.
Man United's initial offer of £35m plus add-ons was quickly rejected by Everton, who are looking to pocket between £70m and £80m from the sale of the Carlisle United academy graduate.
Which Man United defenders could be on the move?
With Man United pushing hard for the signature of Branthwaite this summer, it would not be surprising to see some of the club's current defensive options become surplus to requirements ahead of the 2024-25 term.
England favourite Harry Maguire is at risk of falling into that category, and it has been reported that the ex-Leicester City enforcer will need to move elsewhere in order to enjoy regular game time next season.
The futures of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Victor Lindelof at Old Trafford are also up in the air, while Raphael Varane's departure has already been confirmed.
Ten Hag's troops are planning for an eventuality in which they are unable to secure Branthwaite, with the Red Devils also keen on Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt. body check tags ::
