Sport nationManchester United has expressed interest in signing Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, according to the Evening Standard. The 21-year-old defender has a price tag of £80 million and has impressed suitors with his performances this season, helping the Toffees avoid relegation.
Branthwaite’s impressive form has also caught the attention of Tottenham Hotspur, but Manchester United is keen to bring him to Old Trafford as part of their planned squad overhaul. With Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans set to leave as free agents and Victor Lindelof or Harry Maguire potentially being sold, the Red Devils are in the market for a new centre-back.
Everton, however, is not interested in selling Branthwaite, who has been instrumental in their survival this season. Despite being docked points for breaching Premier League profit and sustainability rules, the Toffees have managed to balance their books and no longer need to cash in on their most valuable players.
Manchester United may need to tempt Everton with a significant offer to secure Branthwaite’s signature. As a homegrown player, he appeals to the Red Devils, who are looking to strengthen their squad with quality and youth. Branthwaite has already earned his maiden England call-up and is expected to become a regular for the national team.
The Red Devils will approach the transfer window with caution, having spent millions in recent years with little to show for it. It remains to be seen if they will be willing to pay £80 million for Branthwaite, who has only completed one full Premier League campaign.
The transfer saga will be closely watched, with Manchester United’s summer plans hanging in the balance. Will they be able to convince Everton to sell, or will they need to look elsewhere to strengthen their defence? Only time will tell.
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