Manchester United had a meeting with the representatives of Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite in February, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
United are long-term admirers of the Toffees star and are hoping to bring him to the club.
The Red Devils view Branthwaite as a long-term replacement for Harry Maguire and are open to signing him this summer or in 2027.
The 23-year-old recently returned to full fitness after spending the first half of the season on the sidelines with a hamstring injury and undergoing surgery in October.
However, the Everton star remains on United’s radar, and a concrete move could be on the cards in the coming months.
Maguire is expected to sign a contract extension, but the Red Devils are preparing for life without him.
Branthwaite is currently focusing on getting over the injury troubles of the past 12 months and forcing his way into England manager Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup plans.
He has made only eight appearances this season and will be desperate to finally overcome his fitness woes ahead of what could be a huge summer.
The Man United target played 73 games in the previous two seasons, and suitors are not concerned about his recent troubles.
He has proven himself in the Premier League and could be perfect for the Red Devils as they build for the future.
Branthwaite and Leny Yoro could be the perfect centre-back partnership for Man United, but getting a deal done could prove tricky given his importance to Everton.
They will continue to keep in touch with his representatives and could be ready to swoop once it is clear he is willing to leave Everton.
