Jarrad Branthwaite analysed as Man United make 'opening offer' for Everton defender

Manchester United have made an 'opening offer' for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, according to reports, as Erik ten Hag tries to bolster his defensive unit this summer.

But an initial bid of £35m has been rejected by the Toffees who deemed the offer to be 'unacceptable', The Athletic reports.

United are set to add another centre-back following the departure of Raphael Varane at the end of his contract this month. If the club do not extend Jonny Evans' deal, it would leave four senior central defenders in the squad, with Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire and Willy Kambwala the quartet.

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Although some may say that four or five is enough, last season United were forced to use Casemiro at centre-back due to an injury crisis and the Red Devils are no doubt keen to ensure that doesn't happen very often again. It's why Branthwaite has emerged as a serious option to bolster their back-line.

Everton look set to sell one of their main assets before the end of June to stay in line with Premier League profit and sustainability rules, though they do not want to part ways with him below the £70million valuation.

United are not the only team tracking his situation, with Tottenham and Manchester City both among his potential suitors. It's no surprise that more than just United are interested in Branthwaite, however, after the England international enjoyed an excellent season at Everton under Sean Dyche.

Having spent the 2022/23 campaign on loan with PSV, Branthwaite returned to the Toffees and almost