The Red Devils are expected to land a new central defender this summer with Raphael Varane set to leave at the expiry of his contract. 

Branthwaite is the priority target for the Mancunian giants and it is now reported that they are leading the race ahead of Madrid for him.

Mundo Deportivo claim that United are best positioned to land his signature, but he won't come on the cheap with the Toffees eyeing £60m.

United are unlikely to make such a huge outlay in a single payment, given their financial woes, and they could negotiate a lower fee up front.

Real Madrid have also enquired over the defender's availability, but they are likely to prioritise a deal for Leny Yoro from Lille this summer.

Branthwaite seems to be an alternative for Los Blancos, but the Englishman is likely to prefer to stay in the Premier League with Man United.

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