Sources: Man United identify Jarrad Branthwaite as favourite transfer option despite internal doubts

Manchester United have identified Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite as their favoured option as a signing in the left centre-back position in the summer.

Sources have told UtdDistrict that the defender is very appreciated at Old Trafford and that he is the favoured option to provide additional strength to the United defence in the summer.

However, there are some doubts internally over how feasible a potential transfer is due to the 21-year-old’s potential price tag, and that there is a belief that United have plenty of areas to recruit in the summer.

The left centre-back role is regarded as important in the transfer market, with cheaper alternatives to Branthwaite also being looked at.

It is also understood that United are targeting Amadou Onana from The Toffees to bolster their midfield. The likes of Christian Eriksen, Casemiro and Scott McTominay have been rumoured with summer exits from Old Trafford.

Another key position for United is the right wing. Jadon Sancho appears unlikely to remain at the club beyond the summer, and Antony has been dropped in recent weeks after underwhelming performances.

Michael Olise has been heavily linked with a move to the club, with the Crystal Palace winger reportedly INEOS’ favoured option for the position.

However, UtdDistrict understands that certain people at the club feel that it is important to make a move for Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams, with the view that they cannot miss out on the Spanish talent with other teams in the Premier League seriously looking at signing him in the summer.

Earlier this year, UtdDistrict exclusively revealed that Williams is the scouts’ favoured option for the role of a ‘versatile forward’ – with Erik ten Hag also an admirer of the player.

The winger has played on both flanks in La Liga but is more regularly operating on the left side this term.

Williams has six goals and 11 assists in 27 appearances this term.