According to reports, Liverpool are preparing a bid for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite who has been targeted by Manchester United.
The Reds are lining up a shock move for their rivals’ star defender as Arne Slot still looks to make his first signing at Anfield.
According to TeamTalk, Liverpool is looking to make a big-money move for Branthwaite who has been heavily linked with Manchester United.
The Red Devils submitted two bids for the defender, both of which were rejected in the region of £50m. However, the Toffees have stood form with their price tag for Branthwaite which they set at £75m.
Considering that Liverpool are yet to spend any money this summer, they could swoop in with a hefty offer which could be enough to tempt Everton to send the 22-year-old to their rivals.
The Arne Slot era got off to a good start with a 2-0 win over Ipswich Town, however, the Dutch manager will be keen to bring in at least one signing before transfer deadline day.
Liverpool are the favourites to sign Branthwaite
Coming as a slight surprise considering Manchester United’s interest in Branthwaite, the Reds are the bookmaker’s favourites to sign the defender.
Oddschecker has a move to Liverpool at 15/8 for Brathwaite, whereas a move to Old Trafford is backed at 8/1.
The defender is reportedly open to a move to Anfield, however, it will surely take a lot of consideration because of the relationship between Liverpool and his current club Everton.
Is Branthwaite a long-term Van Dijk replacement?
Liverpool will keep in mind that Virgil Van Dijk only has one year left on his contract at Anfield and with the Dutchman being 33 now, it looks like it could be his last season in Red.
Arne Slot may have Branthwaite as a shortlisted replacement for Van Dijk and seeing as he is only 22, the English defender could provide a long-term solution although Van Dijk’s shoes are big ones to fill.
Slot hasn’t yet made a signing this summer so the desperation amongst Liverpool’s camp may rise and force them to fork out the £75m asking price that Everton has set.
