Ruud van Nistelrooy has raved about Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite amid reported transfer interest from Manchester United. Van Nistelrooy and Branthwaite recently worked together at PSV Eindhoven, where the youngster spent last season on loan.
As a legend of Dutch football and a former hero at Old Trafford, Van Nistelrooy’s opinion is likely to carry some weight for United boss Erik ten Hag. The ex-Red Devils striker was clear as day while working with Branthwaite last campaign.
“He is a great talent,” claimed Van Nistelrooy. “The boy is young, but he has a future. He is good on the ball, can play on the left or the right of centre-back because he is two-footed. He has height and speed, so he is very complete.”
According to The Daily Mail, Branthwaite’s name is being discussed by senior United figures as they weigh up moving for a centre-back before the end of the summer.
Launching a bid for the 6ft 5in star would be something of an eyebrow-raiser, given that he has only made 10 Premier League appearances in almost four years on the Toffees’ books.
But PSV were so impressed with the youngster that they reportedly attempted to sign him on a permanent £15million deal in January. Perhaps in the knowledge that they could fetch more for Branthwaite this summer, Everton rejected the proposal.
The 21-year-old arrived at Goodison Park in 2020 after breaking through at Carlisle United, where he made his senior debut at 16. The Red Devils could be in need of defensive reinforcements if Harry Maguire leaves the club this summer.
A new midfielder is also thought to be on the manager’s wish list. Sofyan Amrabat has been heavily linked to Old Trafford in recent weeks, although big money from the Saudi Pro League is also in the equation.
United have already welcomed Andre Onana and Mason Mount this summer, with the two transfers combined setting the club back more than £100m.