Manchester United have been delivered a blow in their hopes of landing Everton star man Jarrad Branthwaite, with the England international reportedly open to extending his contract at Goodison Park. Branthwaite, 22, has been a mainstay in the Toffees’ backline since breaking into the team, earning rave reviews which prompted transfer interest from the likes of United and Chelsea. Last year, he made his first cap for the national team and even though Everton continued to battle relegation, the centre-back’s performances shone through.

He was a visible miss for Everton when injured in the first half of the season and under returning boss David Moyes, has forged a formidable partnership with James Tarkowski. And they may get to continue developing that relationship moving forward, if Branthwaite agrees to fresh terms on a contract extension. His current deal expires in 2027, with their Premier League rivals keeping a watchful eye on the situation.

Sky Sports News claims that Branthwaite is ‘open’ to discussing a new contract with Everton, who are planning to fight in order to keep the former PSV loanee on Merseyside.

There is intense interest from Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham also, while Real Madrid have scouted him.

It is unlikely that Moyes’ outfit would be able to offer the same financial figures to those vying for Branthwaite’s signature, but he is willing to hear them out after a revival under the Scottish boss.

Last summer, the Daily Mail reported that Branthwaite would not be willing to extend his Goodison stay if the club were not willing to match the £160,000-a-week wages offered by United.

Having had two bids rejected, the second totalling £50million, United agreed on his potential salary at Old Trafford but the Red Devils were unwilling to match Everton’s £70m asking price. Instead they signed Matthijs De Ligt and Leny Yoro.

United now have a glut of centre-back options, potentially pouring cold water on any summer transfer, but no left-sided specialist with Lisandro Martinez ruled out long-term with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Everton’s stance on selling Branthwaite, however, appear unchanged.

“Jarrad is a top player,” said Moyes earlier this week. “If people want to buy Jarrad then I've said many times, bring a big bag of money.

“Jarrad has done really well. I think he could do better. There are still moments at times when he plays like a young centre-back, but I think he's got an awful lot going for him.

“He’s already been involved in the England squad before I came here…and I think he's got a good mentor beside him in Tarky [Tarkowski]. That'll be a help in improving him."