Premier League defender Man United’s top transfer target

Manchester United travel to the south coast to face Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon. 

The Red Devils’ chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League have almost disappeared, meaning that Erik ten Hag’s side are likely now fighting to ensure they reach the Europa League.

This summer could be one of significant change, with speculation rife that Ten Hag could be replaced as United boss.

Aside from that, it also appears that the Manchester side are set to be active in the transfer market.

As per Football Insider, United are hoping to sign Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite and one other marquee signing this summer.

The English centre-back has been thoroughly impressive for the Toffees this season, despite their underwhelming campaign so far.

The report claims that the 21-year-old is United’s prime target for the upcoming window, and the Manchester club feel that finances won’t be an issue in their pursuit of the defender.

Branthwaite has been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer

Branthwaite joined Everton from boyhood club Carlisle United back in 2020, and has since spent time on loan at both Blackburn Rovers and PSV Eindhoven.

His spell on loan in the Netherlands was impressive, and he has since returned and continued his fine form in Sean Dyche’s side.

In total he has played 34 times so far this season, and he has missed only one league match since the start of September.

Branthwaite’s current contract is set to run until the end of the 2026/27 season, but Everton could face a battle to keep hold of the player until then.

The report claims that several other areas of the Man United squad will be assessed this summer, with the club likely to make at least one other significant signing.

Last year, Rasmus Hojlund was among those that arrived at Old Trafford, joining from Italian side Atalanta in a deal worth around £72 million.