da luck： Manchester United may be able to prise Jarrad Branthwaite away from Everton in a cut-price deal, with the Red Devils making the defender a top target.

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Red Devils ready to spend againLooking for defensive reinforcementsToffees under pressure to sellWHAT HAPPENED?

Transfer plans are in the process of being drawn up at Old Trafford, although it remains to be seen who will be calling the shots from the dugout in 2024-25 – with questions continuing to be asked of Erik ten Hag’s future. Whoever is at the helm, the general consensus is that reinforcements at the back are required.

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With that in mind, Branthwaite continues to register on United’s radar. At 21 years of age, and having already been drafted into the senior England squad, the commanding centre-half is considered to be a shrewd addition for the present and future.

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Everton will be reluctant sellers, but their precarious financial position is leaving them vulnerable to early summer raids. Having already been stung with two points deductions for breaches of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), the Toffees need to try and balance books by June 30.

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United could look to take advantage of that by making a play for Branthwaite. They will be aware of Everton’s need to raise funds – even with a potential takeover from 777 Partners still in the pipeline – and reports that a supposed £80 million ($100m) asking price could be lowered.