Man Utd set to go 'all in' for Varane replacement amid Newcastle United and Man City 'interest'

Manchester United are set to go 'all in' as they look to see off competition from Newcastle United and Manchester City in the race for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

The highly-rated centre-back has been in outstanding form for Sean Dyche's side as they battle against relegation from the Premier League and was rewarded with a first senior call-up to Gareth Southgate's England squad earlier this month. Despite impressing in training, Branthwaite failed to earn his maiden cap and was an unused substitute in the defeat against Brazil and Tuesday's draw with Belgium.

Speaking about the defender's England experience, Everton boss Dyche said: “You know, I know Gareth well, I respect him. I’ve never tried to put any of my thoughts on him, he asked me about players and the form they’re in. I would say as a manager and someone who cares for the players, that I was surprised he didn’t get a few minutes. That being said, a fantastic experience. “I had a quick word with him (Branthwaite) today, but nothing heavy, and he’s back in the group.

“Absolutely not (it has not hit his confidence), it can do nothing else but boost him getting a call up to the main side rather than the Under-21s. Absolute positives all around for him. I’m Everton manager, and I care for these players, I would’ve liked him to get a few minutes. But Gareth wanted to get what he thought was the right team to win."

Despite that disappointment, the former Carlisle United defender is widely expected to become an England regular over the coming years and his progression has not gone unnoticed by several clubs around the Premier League and Europe. Football Transfers have claimed Man City and Newcastle have now emerged as 'serious contenders' to land a big money summer deal for Branthwaite - but it is Man Utd that are currently pushing to sign the £75m-rated defender. The 21-year-old is highly-rated within the new look Old Trafford hierarchy and is seen as a key transfer target as the Red Devils look to bolster Erik ten Hag's options at the heart of his defence.