Manchester United had a meeting with the camp of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in February

Manchester United had a meeting with the representatives of Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite in February, according to journalist and transfer insider Ben Jacobs .

Man United are long-term admirers of the Toffees star and are hoping to bring him to the Old Trafford club someday.

The Red Devils see Branthwaite as a long-term replacement for Harry Maguire and are open to signing him this summer or in 2027.

The 23-year-old recently returned to full fitness after spending the first half of the season on the sidelines with a hamstring injury and undergoing surgery in October.

– Thursday, 2 April 2026

However, the Everton star remains in the plans of Man United and a concrete move could be on the cards in the coming months.

Maguire is expected to sign a contract extension, but the Red Devils are preparing for life without the 33-year-old.

Branthwaite is currently focusing on getting over the injury troubles of the past 12 months and forcing his way into the plans of England manager Thomas Tuchel ahead of the summer World Cup.

He has made only eight appearances so far this season and will be desperate to finally overcome his fitness woes ahead of what could be a huge summer.

The Man United target played 32 games last term and 41 games in 2023-24, and suitors are not concerned about his recent troubles.

He has proven himself in the Premier League and could be perfect for the Red Devils as they keep building for the future.

Branthwaite and Leny Yoro could be the perfect centre-back partnership for Man United going forward, but getting a deal done could prove tricky given his importance to Everton .

They will continue to keep in touch with his representatives going forward and could be ready to swoop once it is clear he is willing to leave the Toffees and join them.