Everton are anticipating a renewed bid from Manchester United for their prime transfer target, Jarrad Branthwaite. Earlier, Everton had received a £43 million offer from United but was immediately rejected, considering the price too low for the left-footed center-back. Branthwaite, who didn't make the final 26-man England squad for Euro 2024, is one of the biggest names in the Premier League with a potential big-money transfer able to discuss his future without the distraction of European competition.
Manchester United, after a long end-of-the-season review has decided to keep the manager, Erik ten Hag for the next season and is expected to offer him a new three-year deal. The new United ownership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, are looking to strengthen the squad this summer and after leaking a big number of goals, defence is the key area to reinforce with Varane already leaving the club on a free and Victor Lindelof set for a potential move to Fenerbache. The club hierarchy has identified Branthwaite as a key target for the defensive line as they believe selling Branthwaite could provide Everton with much-needed funds, as the club is currently facing financial challenges under the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability rules(PSR).
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However, Everton are determined to keep hold of Branthwaite, who won the club's Young Player of the Season award after a strong campaign at Goodison Park. They have set a high price tag of £70 million for the 21-year-old and are not willing to lower the price for their prized asset, drawing inspiration from the £80 million United spent on Harry Maguire as their reason to hold ground on the price. Despite United's initial offer of £43 million, which included £8 million in add-ons, Everton believes they can secure a higher fee for Jarrad Branthwaite.
Although Branthwaite is United's main target this summer for the center-back position, they have indicated other choices as well and will let the Everton center-back go if they don't feel a deal can be reached for the right price.