In light of rumors that Erik ten Hag is interested in Everton youngster Jarrad Branthwaite, it has been stated that Manchester United has found a left-field option to help bolster their center-back ranks this summer.
What would Jarrad Branthwaite’s price be?
The 21-year-old is a “surprise name” that has been discussed by those at Old Trafford, according to journalist Simon Jones, who is writing in his Transfer Confidential for the Daily Mail. The England youth international has “impressed scouts” during his time on loan at PSV Eindhoven last season.
The Carlisle native, who has two years left on his current contract with the Toffees, connected with United icon Ruud van Nistelrooy during his time in the Netherlands, however, the 6 foot 5 talent has since returned to Goodison Park.
Although some reports claim the former Blackburn Rovers loanee could only fetch between £5 million and $6 million, it has previously been suggested that a cost of approximately £20 million may be needed if the Red Devils are to wrest him away from the Merseyside club.
The level of skill of Jarrad Branthwaite
With rumors last year stating that the Premier League heavyweights were pursuing a deal for the then-teenager, ahead of their first window with the Dutchman at the helm, it is certain that the Toffees sensation has been on the radar of Ten Hag and company recently.
The Eredivisie is undoubtedly a league that Ten Hag continues to pay close attention to, as evidenced by the towering rock’s performance while playing for PSV last season. The former Ajax manager has brought players like Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez, and Antony from his native country during his time as United manager.
![Man United's £20m Dream: The 'Everything' Rock Set to be Martinez Heir 2 Jarrad Branthwaite](https://i0.wp.com/metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/GettyImages-1254902436.jpg?resize=480%2C320&ssl=1)
With the Carabao Cup winners having to occasionally use Luke Shaw in that position last season owing to a lack of suitable protection, the expectation is that Branthwaite can emerge as the ideal successor to that guy Martinez as a natural fit in a left-sided center-back spot.
The Everton star appears to possess the same ball skills as the 25-year-old Argentine, despite their physical differences. Former Carlisle manager Steven Pressley recently stated:
“To tell the truth, I believe he has it all. With both feet, he can pass the ball almost as well. He plays fantastic football.
Also dubbed “complete” by Van Nistelrooy, Branthwaite’s ability to play out from the back is shown by the fact that he has averaged 3.61 progressive passes per 90 across the last 365 days, with a similar record to what Martinez has achieved in that time (3.96 per 90).