Manchester United's dream first summer signing gives backhanded compliment to Lisandro Martinez

It is no secret Manchester United are looking to strengthen their defence this summer. It is also no secret Jarrad Branthwaite is at the top of their list to do so.

United are looking to sign at least one centre-back in order to replace Raphael Varane, while there is also a desire to add another, if they can fund it by selling players. Leny Yoro is one of those candidates, but it would take a huge offer to beat Liverpool and Real Madrid to his signature, something United currently aren't in the position to do given their focus on Everton star Branthwaite.

United have already agreed personal terms with Branthwaite should they strike a deal with Everton, but their valuation of the player is well off that of the Merseyside club’s. Everton are adamant the 21-year-old should be held in the same bracket as huge money moves for Harry Maguire, Wesley Fofana and Josko Gvardiol, and if anything, there should be an added premium because of his age, nationality and the fact he's left-footed.

Those close to the club also insist he will only be sold if a 'mega offer' comes in, though United believe there is room to strike an agreement, which could involve hefty performance related add-ons to reach the type of financial package Everton would like.

What is interesting about that pursuit is United appear to be actively targeting a left-sided defender ahead of a right-sided one, despite the fact they will lose Varane at the end of the month. The truth is that while Branthwaite is predominately left-footed, he is also very comfortable on his right and United would have no concerns about partnering him and Martinez together in defence next season if required.

While it is not out of the question Branthwaite will partner Lisandro Martinez in the United backline next season, it would be rather conflicting to focus on the unique skillset of a left-footed defender, when they haven't got a right-footer in the side to complement them. He would also feel like a luxury addition when Luke Shaw and Jonny Evans could provide cover in that position next season, if they do indeed manage to solve their injury issues.

The uncomfortable question is what if he really is the Martinez replacement. The Argentine has been a hugely popular figure during his time at Old Trafford, but a fantastic debut season risks being undermined by an injury-ridden second season in which he only made 14 appearances across all competitions. Martinez had only missed 13 matches across his entire senior career due to injury prior to his Old Trafford move two years ago, but has now missed 56 since then.

At the age of 26, the hope is that he has just been desperately unlucky, though the pessimistic outlook is he is now injury prone and much more susceptible to other issues going forward. A reason for this is not necessarily because of his physical vulnerability, but more so because of his approach. 'The Butcher', as his name suggests, only really has one setting, and it simply isn't in his nature to play at any level other than full throttle.

His masterclass in the FA Cup final was not only a reminder of the undeniable world-class talent he brings to the side, but also a reminder of the unique skillset they simply can’t afford to be without next season either.

It is not a criticism of Martinez that United are looking at Branthwaite, but rather a backhanded compliment to him. He is so important and was missed so much last season, they simply can't afford to be without him, or a recognised replacement again going forward. He is arguably the most important and influential player in the United line up, a previous irreplaceable, who they are now in desperate need to try and replace when required.

Even if they do sign Branthwaite, he will have some job trying to be better than Martinez.