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Manchester United’s scouting team was present at the Everton vs Aston Villa match on Sunday, as reported by the Daily Mail’s Transfer Confidential newsletter.
Their focus was on Jarrad Branthwaite, the young English defender, who is emerging as a potential addition to United’s defensive lineup.
Branthwaite, an England youth international, has been on Manchester United’s watchlist for some time. His performances for Everton, especially after his return from a loan at PSV Eindhoven, have caught the eye.
This season, the 21-year-old has been a prominent figure for the Toffees, with appearances in 18 Premier League matches.
In Everton’s recent 0-0 draw against Aston Villa at Goodison Park, Branthwaite played a pivotal role, helping to keep the Villa attack at bay.
His performance is particularly timely as Manchester United seeks to rejuvenate its defense, which has struggled with age and injury issues this season.
Branthwaite’s statistics from the game demonstrate his potential value to United. He won two aerial duels and made four tackles, with a 76% pass completion rate.
Additionally, his versatility, being able to play as a left-back, adds to his appeal for the Theatre of Dreams.
While a move in January appears unlikely, Manchester United seems set to pursue Branthwaite in the summer transfer window.
However, they’re not the only ones interested in the young defender. Real Madrid is also reportedly keeping tabs on him, indicating a possible bidding war for the Everton star as United aims to bring him to Old Trafford.