Man United convinced Jason Wilcox can help them pip rivals to £80m summer signing | OneFootball

Manchester United believe that Jason Wilcox’s relationship with Jarrad Branthwaite’s agent puts them in pole position to secure the services of Everton centre-back this summer, according to the Sun.

The Red Devils want to sign the Englishman, but the Toffees want £80 million for the 21-year-old and plenty of suitors are keen on him.

However, Wilcox had a previous close working relationship with Branthwaite’s agent David Reeves, and Man United are convinced it will help boost their chances in the race for the Everton star.

The Old Trafford club are ready to bring the Southampton football director to the Theatre of Dreams in the coming days and are confident of brokering a compensation deal with the Championship club.

Helping to land Branthwaite will be one of Wilcox’s first assignments, and he will be keen to get the job done as Man United look to embark on a major squad overhaul following several seasons of underwhelming performances and campaigns.

Raphael Varane, Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire could be on their way out of the club this summer, and new centre-backs capable of winning major silverware for them are on their radar.

Branthwaite has impressed with Everton this term despite their relegation struggles. England manager Gareth Southgate included him in the squad for last month’s friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.

While he did not make his Three Lions debut during the last international break, Man United love what they have seen from the youngster.

Branthwaite is a very talented player with the potential to become one of the best defenders in the world, so getting a deal done could be huge for the Red Devils.