Jarrad Branthwaite responds to Man United transfer rumours after ruling out Premier League rival

Jarrad Branthwaite has responded to recent rumours linking him with a move away from Everton, with Manchester United in the race for the defender.

Branthwaite, 21, has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting young defenders in Europe following a solid campaign with Everton this term.

The English centre-back enjoyed a successful loan spell at PSV Eindhoven last season but is now displaying his talents on the biggest stage in the Premier League week in, week out.

At Old Trafford, it is safe to say that there have been stark defensive issues in Erik ten Hag’s squad this season.

All senior United defenders have had spells on the sidelines through injuries, and the futures of Raphaël Varane, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelöf, and Jonny Evans are up for debate.

This means that INEOS will be searching for a central defender, or maybe even two, in the summer transfer window, and Branthwaite is certainly on that list.

UtdDistrict revealed at the beginning of March that Branthwaite had been identified by United as the favoured option as a left centre-back signing but that there remained some doubt internally over the possibility of a deal with Everton’s high asking price.

Branthwaite responds to rumours

Following Everton’s 1-0 win over Burnley on Saturday afternoon, Branthwaite spoke to the media and was asked about the noise surrounding his name ahead of the summer window.

The young defender provided an answer expected of any professional and reiterated his focus on The Toffees until the end of the season.

He said: “You have just got to block it all out. I think if you focus on the outside stuff, you get distracted from what you need to do on the pitch.

“For me now, until the end of the season, I am just focused on winning games for Everton Football Club.”

Branthwaite rules out Newcastle move

However, behind the scenes, it’s likely that the central defender is pondering on his future and the club’s interested in him. Real Madrid, United and Manchester City all are reportedly keen on signing the defender.

Newcastle are also a club that would like to see Branthwaite join them, yet, according to a recent report from footballtransfers.com, the defender is unlikely to opt for a move to St James’ Park.