Ratcliffe is currently in control over the footballing operations at United following his minority investment earlier in the year.

The Britishman is determined to sign players under the age of 25 and Branthwaite has now emerged as the number one target.

The Red Devils need a new centre-back for next season with Raphael Varane set to leave the club when his contract expires on June 30.

Branthwaite was previously valued at £80m, but he could be prised away for £40m amid their Toffees' ongoing financial problems.

Everton were expected to be taken over by 777 Partners earlier this year, but the deal worth £500m is now on the verge of collapse.

This could force the Toffees to enter administration unless they can recoup their losses by parting ways with multiple key players.

Branthwaite is one of those likely to leave and Ratcliffe wants to make a statement by bringing him to Old Trafford this summer.

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