Real Madrid battle Manchester United for English defender

Manchester United and Real Madrid have dominated the European scene at different points throughout both club's histories. Although the Red Devils have somewhat fallen off in recent years, under new ownership, they are expected to bounce back up.

As a club with the same stature as Real Madrid, it is no surprise to see both sides targeting the same calibre of players in the summer transfer window. If recent reports are anything to go by, then they could battle each other once more off the pitch.

Real Madrid battle Manchester United for English defender

According to English outlet Give Me Sport, Manchester United have been handed an obstacle in their race to sign Jarrad Branthwaite this summer, with Real Madrid also interested in signing him.

Journalist Dean Jones told the outlet that Real Madrid actually have the "advantage" in signing Branthwaite, due to Carlo Ancelotti, the former Everton boss, handing Branthwaite his initial Toffees debut.

So, the Real Madrid boss already has a great relationship with Jarrad Branthwaite, who has been making great strides in the Premier League this season. The 21-year-old has been one of the standout performers in the bottom half of the English top flight.

Branthwaite is a typical English defender and the archetypal body-on-the-line brute force. It is a dying breed in modern football, so it's refreshing to see. It's clear why Carlo Ancelotti is a fan of Branthwaite and Real Madrid fans will certainly come to love him if he signs at the Bernabeu. It is still far too early to compare, but in his early days, Branthwaite it showing signs of Pepe.

Branthwaite spent last season on loan at PSV, so he has a taste of different European leagues already. Under contract at Goodison Park until 2027, he could be an exceptional signing for Real Madrid if they beat Manchester United's new owners in the race.

Do you think Real Madrid should sign Jarrad Branthwaite this summer?