Manchester United remain interested in signing Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite as they look to oversee a defensive overhaul in 2027.

The England centre-back, who played twice for Thomas Tuchel’s side during the recent international break, has been tipped to complete an Old Trafford switch for several years and he continues to be linked with an Everton exit amid his impressive form at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

TEAMtalk claim that Everton will demand a transfer fee worth around €95 million (£80m) to sell Branthwaite next year, while The Daily Mail have confirmed that he remains on Man Utd’s radar as they look to bolster their backline in 2027.

It’s reported that Lisandro Martinez is likely to leave Old Trafford next year, following his recent outburst at the club’s hierarchy, although Michael Carrick’s side may opt to trigger their 12-month contract extension option in order to earn a transfer fee for the Argentina, rather than lose him on a Bosman deal.

Branthwaite is seen as a possible replacement for Martinez and the Red Devils are expected to pursue a potential deal for the England international next year.

Meanwhile, there remains uncertainty surrounding the futures of both Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire, who are both currently set to become free agents in July.

Man Utd’s transfer plans for 2027 confirmed

The Red Devils addressed their forward line with the signings of Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo in 2025, before bolstering their midfield with the arrivals of Carlos Baleba, Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans this summer. Next year, the defence will be improved.

Left-back is regarded as a key priority by the Man Utd hierarchy, following their failed pursuit of Newcastle United star Lewis Hall over the summer, while they are also eager to land a new centre-back to replace the aforementioned Martinez.

In addition, the club may also look to land a new centre forward, although that may be contingent on finding a buyer for Joshua Zirkzee, who remained at Old Trafford this summer despite heavy speculation that he would be offloaded on a permanent deal.