United’s Unwillingness to Match Everton’s Valuation for Young Center-Back Branthwaite Complicates Transfer Talks

Manchester United have made an initial bid of around £35m for center-back Jarrad Branthwaite, a figure that Everton is expected to turn down. The Toffees value the defender at £80m, a price that United are currently unwilling to match. Despite agreeing on personal terms with Branthwaite, it is reported that Everton is not keen on selling the 21-year-old, who many believe to have the potential to become a regular in the England national team.

Everton sees Branthwaite as a player of high potential, rating him in the same league as Harry Maguire and Josko Gvardiol, who were signed by Manchester United and Manchester City for £80m and £77m respectively. Branthwaite’s performances as a left-sided central defender for Everton have been impressive, playing a crucial role in helping the club avoid relegation last season.

With profit and sustainability rules in place for next season and no Champions League football, Manchester United is open to offers for most of their first-team players to raise funds and strengthen the squad under manager Erik ten Hag. Following a performance review that secured Ten Hag’s position as manager, United is eyeing central defense as an area that needs reinforcement. With the departure of Raphael Varane and injuries to key defenders like Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, and Victor Lindelof last season, United is prioritizing the signing of new defensive talent. Talks are also ongoing with veteran defender Jonny Evans for a potential contract extension.