Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is trying to block out the noise surrounding his future as he focuses on the remaining matches in the Premier League season.
The level-headed 21-year-old has been hugely impressive this season, as an emerging star in Everton’s defence as they battle against relegation for a second year running. This has led to speculation over his future, with reported interest from Manchester United, Man City and Real Madrid.
Branthwaite is under contract at Everton until 2027 after fresh terms were agreed in October, but they are a club facing financial implications, which means they will be listening to offers for some of their biggest assets in the summer. There is a possibility of getting the young England international at a cut-price deal should the Toffees get relegated to the Championship.
“You have just got to block it all out,” Branthwaite said, as quoted by 90min. “I think if you focus on the outside stuff, you get distracted from what you need to do on the pitch. For me now, until the end of the season, I am just focussed on winning games for Everton Football Club.”
Branthwaite is one of the Premier League’s highest-rated defenders this season, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that United are being linked with a player with so much potential in a position Erik ten Hag’s side has lacked quality and depth.
Reports today suggest a decision has been made on Raphael Varane’s future and it looks like the French World Cup-winner will be leaving Old Trafford at the end of the season.
United need to invest wisely this summer but defenders will be at the top of the list for Ten Hag. Many players will be leaving and we need to replace them with significant upgrades.
Let us know in the comments section if you think United should sign Branthwaite. He would be near the top of my list for the upcoming transfer window because he is exactly what our defence needs.
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