To reinforce defense, Man Utd could sign ‘the next Rio Ferdinand’ in £75m ‘wall’

English football was previously dominated by Manchester United. But throughout the past ten years, they have witnessed a sharp decline in standards and performance levels. The second-most decorated team in England was eliminated from Europe and currently sits sixth in the Premier League.

Additionally, Erik ten Hag’s team has amassed an unwelcome distinction this week as they currently own the worst defensive record ever for an English team participating in the Champions League group stages.

Ten Hag bắt cầu thủ Man Utd xem Man City ăn mừng - VnExpress Thể thao

As a result, the Red Devils will try to bolster their defense unit in January by shopping around for players.

After keeping a careful eye on the defender for more than a year, TEAMtalk reports that Manchester United is interested in acquiring Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton this January.

Being one of the best defenders in the English premier league, Branthwaite is what the Toffees are hoping to acquire for £75 million.

Sean Dyche’s team is prepared to let him go in order to raise money to reinforce their roster and enhance the financial fair play scenario.

The supporters of Manchester United have already seen a promising young center-back arrive from another English team, and Ten Hag is hopeful that Branthwaite can develop into his left-footed Rio Ferdinand.

Man Utd keeping tabs on Everton youngster Jarrad Branthwaite with new  defender top of Solskjaer's transfer wishlist | The Sun

Ever since rejoining the Toffees following a loan stint at PSV, the England U21 international has been nothing short of extraordinary, contributing significantly to an already formidable Everton team. In addition to making 14 appearances, keeping five clean sheets, and developing a strong connection with James Tarkowski, he has started every game in which he has been available.

The 21-year-old is a very cool and collected defender who keeps the rest of the backline poised both in and out of possession. But because of his controlled energy and fury, he can engage in duels with attackers and almost never makes a mistake. Quite similar to the previously described Ferdinand, who commanded a calm yet terrifying presence at the back.

Scout Jacek Kulig referred to the Everton player as a “wall,” which is a fitting description given his height of six feet five. Usually, a player of his size would struggle with mobility, but Branthwaite is incredibly quick and dynamic. He can outpace even the Premier League’s fastest players in 1v1 scenarios by using his long legs.