Man Utd target produces FLAWLESS display amid Red Devils interest
Manchester United target Jarrad Branthwaite produced yet another impressive performance as Everton ran out 1-0 winners over West Ham United on Sunday.
The young English defender is reportedly on Man Utd’s transfer wish-list for 2024 as Erik ten Hag searches for a new centre-back to bolster his backline.
Lisandro Martinez is currently sidelined through injury and 35-year-old Jonny Evans partnered Harry Maguire in central defence during the Manchester Derby.
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Branthwaite spent last season on loan at Eredivisie giants PSV Eindhoven and the Dutch side were keen on signing him permanently after an eye-catching stint in the Netherlands.
However, Everton were not open to selling the 21-year-old and tied him down to a new long-term contract in October.
Despite putting pen to paper on a new deal at Goodison Park - which expires in 2027 - Branthwaite is still being chased by Man Utd, with the Everton defender on their radar according to The Daily Mail.
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Branthwaite stars in Everton win
Branthwaite has been one of Sean Dyche’s most important players this season, with his height, defensive acumen and calmness on the ball all incredibly valuable traits.
Furthermore, the Everton star was given the ‘Man of the Match’ award by Sky Sports for his performance in the Toffees’ 1-0 win over West Ham after a commanding defensive display.
Branthwaite made 10 clearances during the game (no other player managed more than four), as well as two tackles and two interceptions. He also won three of his four contested aerial duels and marked Michail Antonio out of the game.
The Jamaican international was substituted by David Moyes after 56 minutes following a fairly anonymous performance versus a dominant Branthwaite.
At just 21 years old, the Everton man is one to watch as he continues to establish himself as a reliable performer at the very highest level.
Branthwaite has been one of the breakout stars of the 2023-24 Premier League season and it’s no surprise that Man Utd are beginning to ramp up their interest in his services.