Manchester United are looking to sign a new centre-back in the summer transfer window.
The Red Devils are set to lose Raphael Varane this summer while Jonny Evans faces an uncertain future at the club with his contract expiring soon.
Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof have faced fitness issues throughout the season which has made signing a new defender the club’s priority.
They have identified Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite as their primary target and now they have been handed a boost in their chase of the English defender.
The Toffees are looking to sign a replacement of the 21-year-old defender according to Football Transfers.
The centre-back, who is enjoying his breakthrough season at the club, has impressed a number of clubs with his consistency and talent this season.
His fine form has seen him get a call-up to the provisional England squad by Gareth Southgate ahead of the Euro this summer.
As per the report, Everton want to sign Lyon centre-back Jake O’Brien, who has been a revelation in the Ligue 1 this season.
The former Crystal Palace player has been a mainstay in the Lyon defense after making 31 appearances for them this season in all competitions.
He has helped the team qualify for the Coupe de France final and he will be hoping to contribute to win the trophy against French champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Man United have a clear path to sign Branthwaite
The latest development should come as an encouragement to Man United, who want Branthwaite to start the next season as their player.
Under new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the Red Devils are set to undergo changes at the club and the squad is expected to go through a major overhaul.
Man United finished the season in eighth position in the league and the club hierarchy is hoping to make moves to take the club back to the top of English football.
