Manchester United Identify Four Alternatives After Everton Demands £70 Million for Jarrad Branthwaite

Manchester United are contemplating alternative defensive reinforcements after failing to reach an agreement with Everton over Jarrad Branthwaite. The 21-year-old defender and Manchester United have reportedly worked out personal terms, but the clubs cannot agree on a transfer fee. Everton, who are demanding a hefty £70 million, quickly turned down Manchester United's first offer of £35 million.

With the deadlock over the transfer fee, Manchester United has prepared four other possible options. The leading contenders are Matthijs De Ligt of Bayern Munich, Jean-Clair Todibo of Nice, Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, and Leny Yoro of Lille.

Also Read: Manchester United latest Transfer Rumours

De Ligt, a Dutch international with considerable experience in Serie A and the Bundesliga, is seen as a formidable option. Todibo and Guehi, who caught United's attention last summer are still making an impression in the Premier League and Ligue 1 respectively. Meanwhile, Yoro, a rising star from Lille, has also attracted interest from Real Madrid apart from Manchester United after an outstanding display this season in the Ligue 1. Manchester United's defence has a big void to fill since Raphael Varane left this summer and the club is set to make a move this summer for a reliable and younger option at the back.

Everton, meanwhile is adamant about not letting Branthwaite go on the cheap. Manchester United has to decide how to bolster their defence as the transfer window closes in order to make sure they can revive their winning days ahead of a Premier League season where they are expected to be backed by the new INEOS ownership.

Also Read: All Manchester United players in EURO 2024