Man United “have held more talks in recent weeks” about sensational January swoop for Jarrad Branthwaite | OneFootball

Manchester United have reportedly held more talks over the past few weeks over the possibility of making a January attempt to sign Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

United were strongly interested in recruiting Branthwaite during the summer transfer window but needless to say, a move never materialised.

The Red Devils had at least two bids rejected by the Toffees, who were demanding around £80m for the England international.

When it became clear Everton wouldn’t budge on their valuation, United moved on to alternative targets, securing the services of Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt from Lille and Bayern Munich respectively.

However, it’s believed that United’s interest in Branthwaite remains live – a situation that is aided by Everton’s ongoing financial problems.

Sean Dyche himself recently admitted that he would not be able to stop Branthwaite from departing Goodison Park if a big offer were to be made for him. A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United were plotting a January swoop for Branthwaite.

Now, The Daily Mail reveal that Ruben Amorim’s side are stepping up their efforts to land the 22-year-old.

“Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite continues to pique the interest of Manchester United’s board and more talks have been held in recent weeks about the feasibility of making a January move for the centre back.”

“While new boss Ruben Amorim will be operating with a significantly more restrictive transfer budget moving forward, Branthwaite is a player that has plenty of admirers at Ineos and on United’s football board – and sources have indicated a degree of urgency around his situation given the level of interest from rival teams.”

The Mail add, “Sporting director Dan Ashworth is a driving force behind interest in Branthwaite but with the January window now only six weeks away, generating the capital to deliver Amorim one of the league’s most talented young defenders remains a head-scratcher.”

United almost certainly need to sell before they can fork out big money on new players. It’s understood that offloading Antony is an option under consideration.

Branthwaite has struggled for playing time so far this term, due to injuries.

He underwent groin surgery in the summer and missed multiple matches, but returned to help Everton claim their first win of the season against Crystal Palace before re-injuring himself. He came back once more in the club’s most recent top-flight clash, a 0-0 draw with West Ham.

Branthwaite was thereafter forced to withdraw from the England squad after receiving a late call-up from interim manager Lee Carsley.