Transfer News: Manchester United to replace Varane with £70m-rated Toffees' defender

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reportedly identified central defence as an area that must be improved this summer.

The Red Devils have struggled with injuries all through the team, especially at the back, where Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Lisandro Martinez, and Raphael Varane have missed significant time.

United want to sign Jarrad ­Branthwaite to form a first-choice centre-back partnership with ­Martínez, with Everton open to selling if their valuation of £60m-£70m is met.

With Everton facing financial ­challenges and Sean Dyche, the manager, stating they may have to listen to offers for players, Branthwaite is their most saleable asset.

Branthwaite impressed for Everton in a difficult campaign in which they were docked points but avoided relegation