Everton have refused to drop their expectations for Manchester United target Jarrad Branthwaite. The English defender, who was unlucky not to make Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad, has already agreed personal terms with United. That alone indicated his desire to leave the Toffees for the biggest club in England. The Merseyside club is expected to seek between £70 million and £80 million for Branthwaite’s signature, and United are unwilling to increase their first offer. United’s first offer is thought to be worth £35 million, plus £8 million in add-ons.
According to the i daily, Everton is certain that United will be unable to sign Branthwaite this summer. United were hoping Everton would decrease their assessment of Branthwaite because the midfielder had already committed to come to Old Trafford. If the Toffees are to avoid further Premier League point sanctions, they must address financial difficulties as well.
Everton maintains their hard-line approach. Perhaps it’s time for Branthwaite to submit a transfer request, but only if he doesn’t mind insulting his fans. United have a long list of centre backs to evaluate. It’s unfortunate for Branthwaite because he could miss out on a wonderful career opportunity.
Dharmesh Sheth releases latest Everton update in Jarrad Branthwaite transfer saga. Manchester United are “unlikely” to make a second bid for Jarrad Branthwaite unless Everton lowers their asking price, according to Dharmesh Sheth. On his personal X account (20 June), the Sky Sports reporter stated that the Red Devils “won’t be drawn into a long-running saga” over the 21-year-old defender this summer.
The Toffees have previously rejected a £43 million deal and are sticking to their £70 million valuation, and United will move on if they believe there is no opportunity for negotiation, with alternative targets lined up after negotiating a new offer [Sheth, 17 June] for the England international. Everton want to keep Jarrad Branthwaite. This may sound like a threat or a warning from Manchester United as they consider walking away from a contract, but it is ideal for Everton.
The Toffees are in slight financial troubles, but they don’t want to sell Branthwaite, especially at a low price, so if United aren’t going to pay up, it’s better to walk away now than drag it out all summer. Everton and Aston Villa are assisting each other with PSR concerns, with negotiations for Tim Iroegbunam and Lewis Dobbin proceeding, with the 20-year-old midfielder on his headed to Finch Farm for a physical [Secret Scout, 20 June].
Those financial concerns are precisely why United has targeted Branthwaite with a low-ball offer, but if they do not exist, Everton will be under no obligation to cave in during negotiations. If they can keep Branthwaite, they will be better for the 2024/25 season and might perhaps obtain a higher fee next summer if his improvement continues, which is wonderful news for the team.
