Manchester United are ready to step up their efforts to sign Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the summer.
The Red Devils are willing to spend £55 million to get Branthwaite, according to the Daily Mail.
Signing a defender looks like a priority for Man United now after Raphael Varane’s exit was announced from the club this week.
The French defender’s contract is expiring this summer and the club have decided to let him leave and look for other options in the market.
Branthwaite has been a keyer play for the Toffees this season and his performances have attracted interest from some of the biggest clubs.
With 40 appearances in all competitions, the 21-year-old has had a breakout season with the Toffees.
His outstanding performances have earned him a call-up to the England squad.
Since the arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe as the new minority owner of the club, the Red Devils have been linked with a move for the Everton defender.
Everton would make it difficult for potential buyers to sign Branthwaite as they would demand a high fee for their prized asset.
But the Toffees are willing to cash in on him since they have to address their financial issues and the money from Branthwaite’s sale would help them ease their concerns.
Not only Varane but Jonny Evans is also expected to depart the club this summer, with his contract expiring in a few weeks.
Man United need a new defender this summer
There have been question marks over the future of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof at the club so signing a defender is a necessity for the Red Devils.
It remains to be seen if £55m will be enough to lure the defender to Old Trafford but Everton are likely to demand more.
With interest from clubs like Manchester City and Real Madrid in the defender, the Toffees would be hoping to start a bidding war for the centre-back.