Manchester United are reconsidering their plans to sign Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite and may instead pursue a right-footed centre-back.

The Red Devils have been heavily linked with Branthwaite but ESPN report Everton’s asking price of £75 million could be a huge stumbling block.

United need to strengthen their defence after the departure of Raphael Varane.

They would ideally prefer to sign a right-sided centre-back rather than spend a hefty transfer fee to bring left-footed Branthwaite to Old Trafford.

One intriguing alternative for the Red Devils is Tosin Adarabioyo. However, Newcastle United currently have the edge in the race to secure his signature.

United need more than one centre-back in the summer

Bringing in Branthwaite poses a significant financial challenge for United. They cannot afford to spend £75m on the 21-year-old alone, especially considering the need to bolster several other positions in the squad.

With Varane announcing his departure, United now face a crucial mission to find a worthy replacement and fortify their defence

Jonny Evans’ contract is going to expire next month. United are yet to clarify if the veteran will still be at Old Trafford next season.

There are major concerns over the future of Victor Lindelof, who struggled for form and fitness in the 2023/24 campaign.

Considering he has just one more year left in his current deal, United would prefer to cash in on him this summer.

Harry Maguire has shown quality and resilience in the recently-concluded season. However, a good offer for him could prompt United to off-load the England international.

Currently, Lisandro Martinez is the only senior centre-back who is certain to be a United player next campaign.

We believe the Red Devils should avoid allocating a major chunk of their budget to a single player, that too, a left-sided centre-back.

Depending on the outgoings, they may be compelled to recruit additional high-quality defenders this summer.

Adarabioyo could be a superb acquisition for United, considering his contract with Fulham will expire this summer.

He could move to Old Trafford as a free agent, with United enticing him with a substantial wage increase from his current £40,000-a-week salary.