Key Manchester United target to sign new contract at Everton

The Red Devils are looking to sign a new centre-back in the January transfer window.

Jarrad Branthwaite is set to sign a contract extension at Everton despite interest from Manchester United.

Branthwaite has made a fantastic start to the new season, establishing a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most promising centre-backs. The 21-year-old has already made six appearances for the Toffees across all competitions.

United, who are dealing with an injury crisis in their backline, are reportedly planning to sign a new centre-back this season. Last week, a report from Daily Mail claimed that Branthwaite was among Eirk ten Hag’s main picks for the position. However, it seems United would need to consider other options for a possible January switch.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Everton are in the final stages of extending Branthwaite’s contract. Speaking to the reporters on Thursday, Sean Dyche said: “I think things are probably close now, we have been speaking to him for a while.”

Man Utd came close to signing a new centre-back during the summer. But Harry Maguire’s collapsed move to West Ham forced them to start the season without a new defensive addition.

In addition to Branthwaite, Nice’s Jean-Clair Tobido and Benfica’s Antonio Silva remain on Man Utd’s radar ahead of the transfer window.