Manchester United agree deal with the superstar once described as “very complete” by Ruud van Nistelrooy

Manchester United have taken a significant step towards signing Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, recent reports have revealed.

Manager Erik ten Has has been vocal about how constant injuries, particularly among his central defenders, significantly hampered United’s playstyle last season.

The injury crisis had reached an extent where the Dutchman was forced to play midfielder Casemiro at the heart of the Reds’ defence at one point.

Now, with Raphaël Varane set to depart from Old Trafford and uncertainty looming over Jonny Evans’s future, United must bring in a top centre-back—preferably one who can start on the right, besides Lisandro Martinez.

And who better than a young and commanding 6ft 4in defender who is equally good with both feet?

Manchester United reach agreement with Branthwaite’s representatives

According to The Times, Manchester United have reached an agreement with Jarrad Branthwaite’s representatives.

This deal would lead to Branthwaite pocketing £150,000 to £160,000 a week if a move materialises, sources close to the negotiations have revealed.

The young defender, who recently missed out on a EURO 2024 call-up with England, is also said to be keen on making the switch to Manchester.

The signing would be a big statement by United, considering Branthwaite is seen as one of the most in-demand defenders in the Premier League.

He had even earned high praise from United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy during his loan spell at PSV, with the Dutchman labelling the centre-back as “very complete”.

Read More: Manchester United could sanction €40m transfer as player reaches ‘general agreement’

Last season, the 21-year-old played a crucial role in keeping Everton in the top flight of English football, despite the club being docked a total of eight points for two breaches of the Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Everton’s financial situation remains grim still, meaning they won’t take too much convincing to cash in on their young star. But this also means Manchester United will have to pay up a notable sum, as the Toffees are believed to be holding out for a whopping £70 million for the defender.

With the Red Devils experiencing their own share of FFP troubles, it will be interesting to see how—if at all!—the 20-time English champions find the funds to complete this scoop.