Manchester United are planning a new move for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite next summer. United made two bids for centre-back Branthwaite, worth up to £50million, but they were rejected before the start of the season. However, the 22-year-old still remains at the top of their wish-list. United sporting director Dan Ashworth believes Branthwaite, who is known for his cautious style of play, will fit in well with new manager Ruben Amorim's philosophy and 3-4-3 system.
Newcastle defender Lewis Hall is also in focus for a first England call-up to address the Three Lions' left-back crisis. The 20-year-old, who is part of the England Under-21 team, has been one of Newcastle's standout players this season. One of his impressive performances was during the 1-0 win against Arsenal at St James' Park, where he stood out for neutralizing Bukayo Saka.
England caretaker manager Lee Carsley is monitoring Hall's progress ahead of next week's crucial Nations League games against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. Sources close to Branthwaite suggest he has ambitions to play for a big club in the Premier League.
United could face competition from their arch-rivals Liverpool, who are also interested in the Englishman. For England, it is important to win in Athens to avoid second place in the group and an unwanted play-off in March. Carsley has been criticized for not fielding a left-back in the first two squads he has announced. With Luke Shaw still injured, Hall, who made his Chelsea debut under incoming England boss Thomas Tuchel, is now the favorite for the job.
