Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite reacts to Manchester United transfer interest after bids

Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite is setting his sights on the upcoming season , despite rumors linking him to Manchester United .

The young defender, who stepped up impressively for the Toffees in the Premier League last season and established a partnership with James Tarkowski, has caught the attention of bigger clubs after earning an England call-up and his first international cap.

Despite the buzz, Branthwaite remains focused on his future at Everton. Speaking from the team's training camp in Ireland, he shared his ambitions for the forthcoming season. "I think for me it's just about taking what I learned from last season, and the season before, and putting it all together," he explained, per Everton's official website .

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"I think last season, playing all the games I did helped me put performances in and get the experience I needed. I'm going to take that into this season and keep learning.

"When you’ve got a good defensive record, it gives you confidence going into the new season. It’s not just the defenders who contribute to that, it’s the whole team and it’s the way the manager has us set up to give us the best possible chance to win games, and to pick up as many points as we can. I think it’ll be the same again this season. Hopefully, we can pick up a few wins early on and get the momentum going in the new season."

United's summer pursuits haven't been without its setbacks with two unsuccessful bids for Branthwaite, leaving Everton in a substantial position to reject offers that don't meet its valuation. Yet, United has made strides in augmenting their defence elsewhere, nearing a deal for Leny Yoro, the promising 18-year-old from Lille. Reports also suggest interest in Bayern Munich's Matthijs de Ligt.

Liverpool.com says: United will need to break the bank to sign Branthwaite this summer, potentially spending more than $100 million on the defender. With Everton under no pressure to sell the star, it's unlikely he'll leave Merseyside before September.