Manchester United have agreed personal terms with defender Jarrad Branthwaite, but Everton want £80 million for the 21-year-old.
After the transfer window opened on Friday, United plans to contact with Everton regarding Branthwaite.
According to BBC Sport, Branthwaite, who many feel was unlucky not to be selected for England’s European Championship squad, is not something that Everton wants to trade.
The club rank Branthwaite in the same category as Harry Maguire and Josko Gvardiol and feel it is only a matter of time until he establishes himself as an England regular.
When Maguire joined United from Leicester in 2019, it cost them £80 million. When Gvardiol left RB Leipzig for Manchester City last summer, it cost the club £77 million.
Branthwaite has drawn attention with a string of strong outings as Everton’s left-sided central defender, helping the Merseyside club escape relegation last season despite two point sanctions for breaking financial loss-limiting regulations.
Kevin Thelwell, the director of football at Everton, stated in May that players “will be sold” this summer and urged supporters to have “patience and understanding” while the team works to strengthen its financial position.
As they want to raise money and bolster Erik ten Hag’s team, United are open to bids for practically their whole first-team roster, even with the present profit and sustainability regulations (PSR) in force for the upcoming season and no Champions League football.
Jadon Sancho, a forward who is 24 years old, is valued at £40 million by United.
United is looking to bolster its central defence after a two-week performance evaluation that resulted in Ten Hag’s retention as manager.
After the FA Cup final, Frenchman Raphael Varane left the team, and injuries plagued Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, and Victor Lindelof the previous year.
Injury also plagued seasoned Northern Ireland international Jonny Evans, although United has stated they are in negotiations with the 36-year-old regarding a new contract.
Photo by EPA/ADAM VAUGHAN
