Manchester United are likely to be busy in the summer transfer window in a bid to turn the club’s fortunes around.

The Red Devils have endured another difficult season and will not be able to finish any higher than sixth this term.

Manchester United’s defence is likely to be strengthened in the summer amid injuries, poor form and expiring contracts.

Now, a report in the Daily Mail has claimed that the Red Devils have reportedly readied a huge bid for one of the league’s best young players.

According to the report, Manchester United are preparing to submit a £55million offer for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

Understandably, the Toffees’ stance has been that the 21-year-old centre-back is not for sale.

However, Everton may be forced to cash in on some assets in order to stay within profit and sustainability rules amid difficulties with their prospective takeover.

The Toffees reportedly value Branthwaite at £80million, so it looks as though Man United’s bid could be testing the waters.

Manchester United set for summer battle over Jarrad Branthwaite

Branthwaite has been sensational for Everton this season, forging a strong understanding with James Tarkowski in the heart of the Blues defence.

“This guy is a superstar,” Jamie Carragher said on Monday Night Football earlier this year.

“For a centre-back to control that with his right foot, he is a two-footed player, the control with the right foot being a delicate touch with players around him and then to finish with the left just highlights again how strong Everton are from set pieces.”

Branthwaite’s contract runs until 2027, so Everton’s hand will be relatively strong in negotiations. At the same time, profit and sustainability rules could force their hand, so let’s see what happens in the coming months.