Man Utd told it would take world-record bid to sign Jarrad Branthwaite

Manchester United might have to make a world record bid if they are to sign Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton.

Manchester United are gearing up for a busy summer, with new minority owner INEOS - headed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe - conducing a squad audit.

One area of Erik ten Hag's squad that has been identified for reinforcement is central defence.

With the futures of Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof, Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire in doubt, Ratcliffe has made signing a top-quality young centre-back a top priority.

There aren't too many of those around, which is why United are keen to snap up Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite.

The 21-year-old has established himself as a starters for Sean Dyche's side this season, and is attracting interest from top clubs across Europe.

The former Carlisle man has made 25 Premier League appearances so far this term, helping his side to seven clean sheets and the joint-fourth-best defensive record in the division.

Branthwaite has been so good this season that he could help Everton avoid relegation, which is why they will command a world record fee for his services.

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According to TEAMtalk, the Toffees will demand a minimum of £80 million for Branthwaite, a sum that would make him the joint-most expensive defender of all time alongside United's Harry Maguire.

Everton are reportedly using the £75m fee Chelsea paid Leicester City for Wesley Fofana in 2022 as a benchmark for negotiations involving their young defender.

Ironically, should West Ham renew their interest in Maguire then Branthwaite could end up replacing him at the heart of United's defence as well as matching his price tag.

Chelsea are also said to be interested in the Everton youngster, but at the moment United look like the frontrunners to secure his services.