Man Utd handed fresh transfer boost as powerhouse defender target becomes 'available'

Everton's financial woes are well-documented at this point, with a second points deduction of the season possibly on the horizon. To offset some of their losses, they could sell star youngster Jarrad Branthwaite - and Manchester United are believed to be interested in the player.

This is according to a report from HITC Sport, who mention that the Toffees are looking to raise funds as soon as possible. They have already been hit with a ten-point deduction - a further penalty could be catastrophic for Everton moving forwards.

He will not come cheap, however. A report from the Daily Mail back in December indicated that the Toffees would 'not listen' to any offers lesser than £100 million for Branthwaite - despite this, their need to generate income may see this asking price be lowered as the January window progresses.

Branthwaite has been sensational for Everton this season - it is no stretch to brand him as their most talented defender as things stand. He has played in 18 Premier League games this season, helping the Toffees to six clean sheets along the way - he has yet to score a goal or register an assist, though.

Who else is interested in a move for Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite?

While United have been linked with the 21-year-old, they aren't the only ones who are thought to be in the race. If they make a move for the Toffees' talisman, they could face heavy competition in the form of Real Madrid.

They aren't the only ones, either. Premier League rivals such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle United are believed to be 'huge admirers' of the Carlisle United academy graduate. As such, if United wish to be successful in their quest to bring Branthwaite to Old Trafford, there are several major obstacles that they will need to overcome first.