After finishing his loan spell at PSV Eindhoven last year, Jarrad Branthwaite likely did not expect to attract attention from Manchester United and be connected to Real Madrid the next season. The Everton defender has experienced a rapid ascent this year, solidifying his reputation as one of the top young defenders in the Premier League. The Manchester Evening News is aware that United are keeping an eye on him in preparation for the upcoming summer transfer window as they aim to bolster their defensive choices. There is considerable doubt surrounding the center-back position at M16, and many believe that Lisandro Martinez is the only player guaranteed a spot in the club’s future plans. Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans will be free agents this summer, and there is a chance that Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof may be transferred. Check out: The new leader at Ineos discusses the determination that could help Manchester United navigate Financial Fair Play regulations. Four observations seen during Manchester United’s training session as the team gears up for their upcoming match against Liverpool. If Varane doesn’t get a new contract, United will likely need to focus on signing a top-quality center-back for the right side. They have been associated with a group of players including Branthwaite, such as Jean-Clair Todibo of Nice and more recently Jules Kounde of Barcelona. Branthwaite stands out as a left-footed player, leading to speculation about United’s interest in signing another left-footed center-back when Martinez already plays that role for the team. The Argentinian player plays a crucial role in United’s playing style, assisting in moving the ball forward from the defense. This ensures that he will maintain his place in Erik ten Hag’s preferred starting line-up when he is healthy. On the other hand, Branthwaite has demonstrated his versatility by being able to play as a right-sided centre-back, despite mostly playing on the left alongside James Tarkowski for Everton this season. The 21-year-old player, who signed with Everton from Carlisle United in 2020, mentioned this season that he would be fine playing on the right side because of the strength of his non-dominant foot. He explained on Everton’s website, “I am naturally left-footed, but I have a strong weak foot as well, as shown by my five-star rating on the new FIFA game!”
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