Man United confident about signing Premier League defender

Manchester United twice came from behind to avoid an embarrassing defeat and earn all three points against Sheffield United on Wednesday night. 

Jayden Bogle gave the visitors a surprise lead at Old Trafford, before defender Harry Maguire pulled the Red Devils level.

Ben Brereton Diaz then restored the Blades’ lead shortly after the break, before Bruno Fernandes equalised from the penalty spot.

The Portuguese then added his second to put the hosts ahead, before setting up Rasmus Hojlund to add their fourth and secure all three points.

Despite the victory, doubts still remain over the future of United boss Erik ten Hag, with speculation rife that he could be replaced this season.

While that remains to be seen, it appears that United are hoping to sign a centre-back when the transfer window reopens.

Branthwaite has been in good form for Everton this season

As per Football Insider, the Manchester club are confident that an offer in the region of £60-70 million would be enough to land Jarrad Branthwaite this summer.

The Englishman has been in fine form for Everton this season, and netted the Toffees’ opener as they beat Liverpool 2-0 in the Merseyside derby on Wednesday.

Branthwaite, 21, joined Everton from Football League side Carlisle United in January 202o, before joining Blackburn Rovers on loan a year later.

He returned to Goodison Park in 2021, and spent last season on loan at Dutch side PSV Eindhoven.

The central defender was hugely impressive while in the Netherlands, and it was therefore decided that he would be part of Sean Dyche’s squad for the current season.

In total he has played 37 times this season across all competitions, and he was handed his first senior England call-up earlier this year, although he is yet to make an appearance for the Three Lions.

The report claims that Everton are keen to agree a deal for Branthwaite early on in the window in order to include the fee in their accounts for the current period, therefore avoiding further points deductions.

United are therefore hopeful of agreeing a deal by the end of June.