Liverpool and Manchester United interested in shock move for Premier League defender

Manchester United missed out on the chance to move level on points with rivals Manchester City as they were held to a 2-2 draw against Leeds United on Wednesday. 

Erik ten Hag’s side found themselves 2-0 down against The Whites at Old Trafford, before late goals from Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho rescued a point.

The Red Devils remain third in the Premier League table, seven points behind league leaders Arsenal, who also have two games in hand.

Now, United are said to be interested in a shock move for a Premier League defender, although they will have to beat rivals Liverpool to his signature.

As per The Mail, United and Liverpool have both sent scouts to watch Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who is currently out on loan at Dutch side PSV Eindhoven.

The 20-year-old centre-back has been impressing in the Eredivisie, starting each of PSV’s last six league games.

PSV are said to have already had two offers for Branthwaite rejected by The Toffees, the second of which was believed to be £15 million.

Branthwaite has attracted interest from Manchester United and Liverpool

The Dutch club’s sporting director, Marcel Brands, signed Branthwaite for Everton during his time with the club.

The defender arrived at Goodison Park for just £1 million from Carlisle United back in 2020, and spent time on loan with Championship side Blackburn Rovers during the 2020/21 campaign.

Branthwaite has made 13 senior appearances for Everton having been given his debut by Carlo Ancelotti, but the defender fall out of favour during Frank Lampard’s tenure and was therefore sent on loan last summer.

United are likely to be in the market for a central defender this summer, with speculation continuing to link Harry Maguire with a departure from Old Trafford.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have struggled defensively this term, particularly in the absence of Virgil van Dijk, and it has been rumoured that Joel Matip may be allowed to leave Anfield at the end of the season.