Manchester United transfer target is ‘a monster’ says Ian Wright, Red Devils have wanted him for three years

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Manchester United will be looking to strengthen in the summer transfer window and one name looks set to feature prominently.

This is Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who has established himself this season as a key player for the Toffees.

The 21-year-old has made 29 starts in all competitions. He has been a towering presence in their defence and the Daily Mail reported in January that Manchester United sent scouts to watch him in action.

The young centre-back is the type of young defender United need to be targeting, and Everton’s financial problems could play into United’s hands.

Ian Wright hails Jarrad Branthwaite

Branthwaite’s performances are gaining attention, with the 6ft 5″ defender being tipped for an England international call-up in the lead up to Euro 2024.

This could end up backfiring on United by adding to his transfer value, and the club will be assessing him up against alternatives like Benfica’s Antonio Silva.

Former Premier League star Ian Wright is impressed with his performances, lauding Branthwaite as a ‘monster’.

He told the Wrighty’s House podcast: “I believe now he will be in the next England squad. He has got everything.

“You watch how he plays, left sided as well, he plays out well. Very brave. And then when you listen to his interview he sounds like somebody who is like yeah, I’m there, I’m here. He should be called up. And not only that, he should be played.

“Let’s have a look at him. I’m telling you we have a monster on our hands at left-sided centre-half. A monster.”

United interest in Jarrad Branthwaite dates back three years

Branthwaite spent last season on loan at PSV Eindhoven where he worked under manager at the time Ruud van Nistelrooy.

He plays as a left-sided defender, a position where United clearly need an alternative to injury-hit Lisandro Martinez.

Manchester United’s interest in Branthwaite dates back three years, with the club linked with the defender when he was just 18.

The Mail reported at the time that United were impressed with Branthwaite while he was on loan at Blackburn, although evidently did not pursue a move strongly enough.

Now, as happens so frequently with United, the club will end up paying a much higher fee to get him this summer, although would be landing a much more Premier League ready player.

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