Manchester United are keeping tabs on Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of a potential transfer to Old Trafford, according to Football Insider.
Branthwaite has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the Premier League since switching from National League outfit Carlisle United to Everton in January 2020.
Loan spells with PSV Eindhoven and Blackburn Rovers played an important part in his development, helping him refine his game before becoming an influential figure for the Toffees over the last three campaigns.
Despite a myriad of injury concerns, he has made 101 appearances for Everton, cementing himself as one of the most promising young centre-backs in England.
United have admired the Toffees defender for some time and reportedly made a serious effort to bring him to Old Trafford under former boss Erik ten Hag.
Everton reportedly turned down bids from the club, while Branthwaite subsequently underlined his commitment to the Merseyside club by signing a new five-year contract last July to remain at Merseyside until 2030.
Despite seeing several offers rebuffed, it appears United remain keen on signing Branthwaite, as Football Insider claims that the 20-time English champions are keeping close tabs on the 6ft 5in centre-back.
The report adds that Branthwaite’s display this season has placed him back on United’s radar, and the club are now weighing up a potential swoop for him next summer as Michael Carrick looks to bolster his defence after a slow start to the 2026/27 campaign.
Renewed attempt
In a previous update, former Man Utd chief scout Mick Brown revealed to Football Insider that the Red Devils hold the Englishman in high regard and could reignite their interest in him.
Confirming the report, transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke, speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, revealed Everton are aware of significant interest in Branthwaite from several clubs, including United.
He said: ‘It wouldn’t be a surprise if they did reignite their interest because they’re long-term admirers of Branthwaite.
‘They tried to sign him in the summer of 2024. They had a couple of derisory offers rejected for him that Everton felt were not good enough at the time.
‘Everton are wary of potential interest from other clubs like Manchester United, even Manchester City, and there’s been talk of maybe interest from abroad as well.
‘Everton aren’t in any real panic over his future; he’s under a long-term contract, but if he keeps up his recent performances, then that interest is bound to be there.’
With four years still running in his contract, United will need to submit a significant offer for Branthwaite, as Everton will likely demand a fee well above his £34m Transfermarkt valuation.
