Manchester United face Tottenham competition £70m defensive lynchpin

Tottenham’s recruitment team also likes his left-footed balance and believes he suits Thomas Frank’s developing defensive setup. Even so, Everton stands firm. The club rejects all offers and aims to keep stability at Goodison Park after a few turbulent seasons.

Interestingly, earlier reports suggested that Everton refused to entertain any offers for Branthwaite, and that position still holds. Meanwhile, reports also indicated that Liverpool plan a €74 million approach for him, which could intensify an already heated chase.

Branthwaite remains settled at Everton. Those close to him say he wants to stay and believes that regular football under David Moyes will continue to develop his game. For now, Everton supporters can breathe easy, though with summer approaching, peace might not last long.

Why Branthwaite fits Ruben Amorim’s vision?

Branthwaite will definitely fit into the system that Ruben Amorim has been using at Manchester United. The Portuguese coach wants defenders who ahs the strength and also calmness, which the English defender has in plenty.

The 23-year-old is tall, composed on the ball, reads dangers very early, steps forward with purpose, and recovers ground quickly. All these qualities make the English defender a perfect for for Amorim’s system. Moreover, Branthwaite is pretty confident with the ball at his feet, and he has a huge passing range, which will ideally make him a very good fit for the back three of United.

The 23-year-old’s aerial ability strengthens the side during both defensive and attacking set pieces. However, he must improve his ball-carrying and reactions after clearances, two areas Amorim can refine with focused work. He plays comfortably with both feet and stays composed under pressure, which makes him ideal for the left side of a back three.

However, the Englishman’s long contract, though, gives Everton control, and United must make a massive offer to change that. Still, Branthwaite’s qualities align perfectly with Amorim’s tactical vision. Whether United choose to meet Everton’s demands could define the shape of their next defensive era.