Manchester United may have a key advantage over Liverpool in the race to sign a £50 million star who previously impressed Jürgen Klopp.

Manchester United may hold a significant advantage over Liverpool in the race to sign a shared transfer target, according to recent reports.

With Liverpool expected to revamp their defense this summer, new manager Arne Slot has been linked with several potential signings, including Bournemouth duo Milos Kerkez and Dean Huijsen.

Another defender reportedly on Liverpool’s radar is Jarrad Branthwaite. Sky Sports lists the Everton centre-back as a target for multiple clubs, including the Reds. However, one major obstacle could complicate their pursuit.

Man United May Have an Edge Over Liverpool for Branthwaite

CaughtOffside reports that Manchester United are preparing a £50 million bid for Branthwaite, who has also attracted interest from Liverpool and Real Madrid. The report suggests that United “would surely have the edge” over their rivals since Everton are unlikely to sell to Liverpool. Instead, the Toffees would reportedly prefer an overseas transfer if they decide to offload the 22-year-old.

Branthwaite Unlikely to Join Liverpool

Branthwaite previously caught Jürgen Klopp’s attention, with the former Liverpool manager praising the 6’5” defender ahead of the Merseyside derby in October 2023. Klopp also cited Branthwaite’s physical presence as a reason for omitting Jayden Danns from Liverpool’s squad in a later meeting with Everton.

However, history suggests a transfer to Anfield is improbable. The last direct transfer between Everton and Liverpool was Abel Xavier’s move in January 2002—months before Branthwaite was even born.

Although the young defender performed well in the recent Merseyside derby, winning key duels, FBref data indicates that several of his underlying stats over the past year fall below average compared to other defenders in Europe’s top five leagues.

With David Ornstein reporting that Virgil van Dijk is likely to sign a contract extension, Liverpool’s need for defensive reinforcements is reduced—though not entirely eliminated.

Considering Everton’s reluctance to sell to their local rivals, chasing Branthwaite might prove futile for Liverpool. Instead, recruitment chief Richard Hughes may be better off focusing on alternative targets, such as Huijsen, who appears both more attainable and a better fit for Slot’s team.