Manchester United have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, as the Toffees are now willing to accept an offer of £50m, significantly lower than their initial asking price of £70m. This development comes after United had two previous bids rejected by Everton, with the Red Devils keen to strengthen their defense.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano had stated that Branthwaite is keen on the move to Old Trafford, but Everton were initially unwilling to negotiate. However, with Branthwaite reportedly unwilling to sign a new deal at Everton unless they match the £160,000 a week offered by United, the Toffees may be softening their stance.
United are keen to sign Branthwaite as part of their plans to strengthen their defense, with the 21-year-old seen as a potential long-term partner for Leny Yoro, who joined the club this summer. Yoro, who signed from Lille for £52m, is currently sidelined with an injury, but United are hopeful that he and Branthwaite can form a solid defensive partnership in the future.
The Red Devils are also exploring other defensive options, including a potential free transfer for former Atletico Madrid defender Mario Hermoso. Hermoso, who is valued at €25m, is available on a free transfer after leaving Atletico Madrid, and United are reportedly leading the race to sign him.
However, the pursuit of Branthwaite remains a priority for United, with the club keen to sign a young, talented defender who can provide depth and quality to their backline. Branthwaite, who has already made his England debut, is seen as an exciting prospect, and United are willing to invest in his potential.
The situation highlights the ongoing negotiations between United and Everton, with the two clubs yet to reach an agreement on Branthwaite’s transfer. However, with Everton’s reduced asking price, a deal may be closer than initially thought.
United’s interest in Branthwaite is part of their broader plans to strengthen their squad, with the club keen to challenge for major honors in the coming season. The Red Devils have already made several signings this summer, including Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee, and Daniel Bentley, but they are still keen to add more quality to their squad.
In addition to Branthwaite, United are also exploring other transfer options, including a potential move for Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt. De Ligt, who is valued at £60m, is seen as a top target for United, but the club face competition from other European giants.
Despite the challenges, United remain confident that they can secure the signings they need to strengthen their squad. The club’s new owners, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are keen to invest in the team, and United are hopeful that they can make a significant impact in the transfer market.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite has received a significant boost, with Everton willing to accept an offer of £50m. United are keen to sign the young defender as part of their plans to strengthen their defense, and the club remains confident that they can secure the signings they need to challenge for major honors.