Man United are looking to sign an ‘amazing’ Premier League star for £70m as a clear upgrade to Lisandro Martinez.
Manchester United are still interested in Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite as Michael Carrick looks ahead to the January transfer window.
During the summer, United focused on strengthening their midfield but didn’t add much to their defense. Carrick has noticed this, especially since the team has conceded seven goals in their first four Premier League games. Four of those goals came against newly promoted teams Hull City and Ipswich Town, showing where improvements are needed before January.
In recent games, Carrick has relied on Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez as his central defenders. Both players’ contracts run until June 2027, but it’s not certain they will renew, making it more important than ever for United to invest in defense.
Good news for United is that they appear to be planning ahead. talkSPORT reports that the club still wants Everton’s 24-year-old centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite. United made two offers for him last summer, but both were rejected. Since then, Branthwaite has struggled with injury and missed most of the 2025/26 season. Now fully recovered, he’s back to top form, impressing alongside James Tarkowski in Everton’s recent matches.
Branthwaite helped Everton keep clean sheets against Crystal Palace and Tottenham, showing strong defending and great ability to pass the ball. United see those qualities as perfect for their defense and are thinking about a big defense rebuild in 2027.
A couple of years ago, Everton wanted around £70 million for Branthwaite, and with his contract running until 2030, the price might be similar now.
Tarkowski has high praise for his teammate, calling him “amazing” and highlighting his strength, speed, and communication skills. He said, “Last year was tough for him, but now he’s back fit and playing brilliantly, making lots of tackles and blocks while staying calm on the ball.”
Stats back up Tarkowski’s compliments, with Branthwaite outdoing United’s Martinez in tackles, interceptions, and aerial duels this season. Martinez may leave next summer if he doesn’t get a new contract, so getting Branthwaite would be a big upgrade for United’s defense.
The only question is whether United can meet Everton’s price.