Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite remains on Manchester United’s transfer radar heading into the summer window.
Ineos have confirmed they will back Ruben Amorim with new signings in the summer and one area that may need strengthening is centre-back.
That is because Victor Lindelof faces an uncertain future at Manchester United while Jonny Evans is also out of contract. With two outgoings expected, Amorim will need more depth for his 3-4-2-1 system.
Jarrad Branthwaite is considering leaving Everton this summer after being snubbed by Thomas Tuchel in his first England squad. The 22-year-old has been in great form this season but had to settle for a spot in the England Under-21s.
Jarrad Branthwaite started for England’s Under-21s against Portugal on Monday evening and Ineos would have liked what they saw.
Jarrad Branthwaite drops ‘100%’ flawless England U21 display
While the senior England team beat Latvia 3-0 on Monday, the Under-21s side secured an impressive 4-2 victory over Portugal’s Under-21s.
Branthwaite made the starting lineup that also included former United target Jobe Bellingham.
The Everton defender played just over an hour at The Hawthorns before being replaced, and Branthwaite’s match stats prove he barely put a foot wrong.
| Minutes played | 62 |
| Touches | 86 |
| Passes completed | 99% (80/81) |
| Possessions lost | 1 |
| Duels won | 100% (2/2) |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Clearances | 2 |
Branthwaite was flawless in and out of possession, completing 99% of his passes and winning every duel he contested.
He also didn’t commit a single foul and was not dribbled past once in the match – a completely dominant display from the back.
Why Jarrad Branthwaite is perfect for Ruben Amorim
In Amorim’s ‘spectacular’ 3-4-2-1 system, he urges his back three to step up, be confident and play through the opposition’s lines.
Against Portugal, Branthwaite proved that he is composed and calm on the ball, only giving away one of his 81 passes on the night.
Amorim wants United to dominate possession and Branthwaite’s ability on the ball makes him an ideal defender for the Red Devils boss.
Additionally, Amorim wants more physicality in his side after being wowed by the intensity of the Premier League. According to Branthwaite’s Premier League profile, he stands at 195cm or 6ft 4in.
The 22-year-old is also very athletic, can play with both feet and has plenty of Premier League experience – it is no surprise Ineos remain interested in a deal this summer.
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