“£80M transfer to be sealed in January” Everton already to set to complete deal of £80m as the first business in January and…..

Everton is bracing itself for interest in star defender Jarrad Branthwaite from Manchester United, but the Toffees have set a hefty price tag of £80 million. According to The Athletic, Manchester United had bids of up to £50 million rejected in the summer, and it’s unlikely that they will meet Everton’s valuation in the January transfer window.

Branthwaite has been instrumental in Everton’s improved defensive performances since his return from injury, and it’s no surprise that the club is keen to keep him. The 22-year-old has started seven Premier League games, and the Toffees have suffered only one defeat in that period. His impressive form has also caught the attention of England manager Gareth Southgate, who handed him his first senior cap in November.

While Manchester United may not be able to afford Branthwaite in January, other clubs “higher up the table” are expected to show interest in the summer. Manchester City has also been linked with a move for the defender, who has been impressive in his performances for Everton. The Citizens are known for their strong defensive record, and Branthwaite’s addition would only strengthen their backline.

Everton’s £80 million asking price may seem steep, but it’s justified given Branthwaite’s importance to the team and his potential for growth. The defender has already shown his ability to perform at a high level, and his value is only likely to increase in the future. However, the club may need to reassess its valuation at the end of the season, when Branthwaite will have two years remaining on his contract.

In other news, Everton has a decision to make regarding Michael Keane, who is set to enter the final six months of his contract. The defender is attracting “widespread interest,” and it remains to be seen if manager Sean Dyche will sanction an exit for him in January. Keane has been a regular starter for Everton, but his contract situation has raised questions about his future at the club.

Fabrizio Romano has also revealed that Everton is interested in signing players from Serie A in the January transfer window. The Toffees are expected to be active in the market, and fans will be eagerly awaiting news of any new signings. With the club’s new owners, The Friedkin Group, looking to make a positive impact, the January transfer window promises to be an exciting time for Everton fans.

The Toffees will be keen to strengthen their squad and make a push for a top-half finish in the Premier League. With Branthwaite’s future uncertain, the club will need to identify potential replacements and make moves to bring them in. The January transfer window is always a busy time, and Everton fans will be hoping that their club can make some shrewd signings to boost their chances of success.