Former Man United star sends Jarrad Branthwaite warning over transfer: 'Be prepared'

Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha believes Jarrad Branthwaite would have to adapt to the pressures of a bigger club, should he make the switch from Everton.

Branthwaite is on United's radar ahead of the summer transfer window, with the young central defender impressing for the Toffees this summer. The 21-year-old has also received his first England callup from Gareth Southgate - the new favourite for the Man United manager's job - as he continues to catch the eye.

The Manchester Evening News revealed last week that Branthwaite is still high on United's wishlist, but reports have also claimed Chelsea are willing to pay up to £100m to land the Cumbria-born stopper, breaking the world record for a defender which United currently hold with their Harry Maguire signing.

Saha – who also played for Everton – thinks Branthwaite would need to add mental resilience to his physical attributes if he moved to United. He described Branthwaite as the "right target" for the Old Trafford club.

Saha told Betfred: “If Manchester United wants to buy a player, then that’s because they’re performing on a regular basis for their club, so I do believe Jarrad is the right target. You need to be prepared mentally to make the move to a club like Manchester United because it’s such a big step.

“Jarrad has a lot of quality, he’s got the physique, he comes across as down to earth and he seems to have the right people around him, so there are a lot of indications that suggest he could be the right fit.”

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Saha says United must prioritise their defence when it comes to the upcoming summer transfer