Manchester United may look to use Harry Maguire as a makeweight in their bid to sign Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer, according to reports.

Branthwaite is said to be one of United’s top targets in their first window under their new regime – with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and incoming CEO Omar Berrada to work in tandem as they look to bring about a drastic overhaul at Old Trafford.

United’s ability to splash the cash is likely to be severely restricted, however, with the club missing out on the Champions League and reeling from several unsuccessful – and expensive – forays into the transfer market in previous windows.

As a result, United’s hierarchy may be forced to think creatively in their efforts to strengthen the squad and this could even extend to using players in partial swaps.

The Daily Star have claimed Maguire may be used as bait after United identified Branthwaite as a talented young player that could strengthen the spine of their side.

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing up a move for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite

The club could use Harry Maguire as a makeweight in a move for Branthwaite this summer

But Branthwaite, who is also attracting interest from several other clubs, is valued at around £70million and at present United appear unable to stretch to afford this.

Their case may be aided by Everton’s financial flight, though. The club’s takeover by 777 Partners remains unresolved and they could have to sell key players to avoid potential points deductions for Financial Fair Play and sustainability breaches.

It is said United are hopeful that by offering the experienced Maguire as part of their proposal, they may be able to tempt Everton into selling Branthwaite.

Whether Maguire would be receptive to the move remains unclear. Despite falling out of favour at United last season, he refused to join West Ham in the summer.

The 31-year-old has become a first-team regular under Erik ten Hag over the current campaign with United’s backline decimated by a string of injury problems.

Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe (right) is set to lead a wide-sweeping overhaul at Old Trafford

Marcus Rashford could be sold with United open to offloading almost their entire squad

According to The Telegraph, just three players are safe – and Bruno Fernandes isn’t one of them

United believe Maguire could knock around £20m off Branthwaite’s hefty price tag.

It was recently reported that United are open to selling the majority of their squad in an explosive fire sale this summer – and just three players are deemed off limits.

The Telegraph claimed that United are prepared to be brutal with potential outgoings at the end of the season as they brace for a drastic sell to buy policy.

Selling Marcus Rashford is an option, as first reported by Mail Sport’s Chris Wheeler, while there is seemingly no long-term security over captain Bruno Fernandes.

Only Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund have been spared from the chopping block, raising question marks over the future of Maguire.