“He’s a top talent and his club can’t seem to be able to retain him, this gives us the opportunity to bring him to Old Trafford since the player is also ready for the big club deal” – This is according to Sir Jim Ratcliffe as Manchester United are aiming to secure a deal for a “superstar” player whose current club may struggle financially to retain him. The club sees this as an opportunity to bring top talent to Old Trafford, especially given the player’s uncertain contract situation and the player is ready for such a move.

Manchester United are reportedly revisiting their interest in Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, whom they pursued over the summer, as per the *Daily Mail*.

Branthwaite’s impressive 35 league appearances last season, which earned him a spot in Gareth Southgate’s provisional Euro 2024 squad, underscored his potential.

However, injuries this season have limited the 22-year-old to just one Premier League start, and he was benched for Everton’s last two matches.

United were keen on Branthwaite but balked at Everton’s £70 million asking price. Now, with his recent lack of playing time, United may see an opportunity to finally secure their long-term target.

Branthwaite’s journey from the Carlisle academy to Goodison Park in 2020 has included loan spells with Blackburn Rovers and PSV Eindhoven, leading to his breakthrough last season under Sean Dyche with 41 appearances across all competitions. His stellar campaign prompted a transfer saga over the summer, although he remained at Everton.

The *Daily Mail* suggests United and other Premier League clubs are keeping a close eye on Branthwaite’s situation, with INEOS potentially interested in 2025 despite financial challenges. Dyche is reluctant to lose Branthwaite mid-season as Everton fights for survival, though a major offer from United may test Everton’s resolve. With Branthwaite’s contract running until 2027, Everton’s limited financial capacity may eventually push them to sell while his value remains high.

This comes as United aim to bolster their defense with new manager Ruben Amorim, especially as Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof are expected to depart when their contracts expire at season’s end.