Manchester United eye Jarrad Branthwaite alternative amid £8.5m blow and other transfer rumours

Manchester United have identified a summer transfer alternative to Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

The 21-year-old has put in a number of impressive displays this season which has seen interest from several Premier League clubs arrive. Spanish giants Real Madrid are also now said to be in the race for his signature given Carlo Ancelotti is familiar with the player because of his time as manager at Goodison Park.

Understandably, as he will be a target for many, United are drawing up alternatives with Juventus' Gleison Bremer as one and interest from Old Trafford is increasing, as per the Daily Mirror. The Brazil international has a £43million release clause in his contract with Erik ten Hag looking to take advantage.

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Considering profit and sustainability rules, United may also be forced into selling a number of players if they are to make marquee transfers this summer. Selling the likes of Jadon Sancho and Donny van de Beek could prove crucial, however parting ways with the latter could be a challenge.

According to German outlet Bild, Eintracht Frankfurt, where Van de Beek has spent the last few months on loan, are unwilling to spend £8.5million option to make his move permanent this summer. The Netherlands international sees his contract expire in 2025.

Elsewhere, Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino has commented on his future following links to Man United. "The only thing I have in mind is to finish the season well," he said. "That [contract negotiations] is for my representative and the president to carry out.

"During all these years I have shown total commitment and in these final months of the season, I want to make sure that Real Sociedad are where they deserve, which is playing in Europe.

"I want to make history with the club. It would be five consecutive seasons of qualifying for Europe, something that no one has achieved. It would bring great pride to achieve it."

Another midfielder that could become a concrete target for United is Leicester City star Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall with it possible the Foxes have to sell their star man due to financial concerns. The Championship leaders were charged for breaking PSR rules earlier this week and further punishment could still arrive.

With that in mind, the 25-year-old could leave the King Power Stadium for a cut-price fee with it possible Brighton renew their interest from January.