Manchester United have agreed personal terms with Jarrad Branthwaite How do they hope to do the Everton defender his first summer signing.
However, United are reluctant to pay the Merseyside club’s asking price, with Everton wanting at least £70 million for the England international, which would be close to a world record fee for a defender.
United hope to begin their summer rebuilding work by bringing in Branthwaite following the departure of Raphael Varane, who was released on a free transfer after his contract expired.
Manager Erik ten Witch, who is also negotiating a new contract, felt defensive injuries were the main reason why United struggled so much last season. All five senior centre-backs spent periods on the sidelines, while youngster Willy Kambwala and midfielder Casemiro took their places.
Branthwaite, who has been in form throughout Everton’s campaign, also represents a younger generation than Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, who will be entering the final year of their respective contracts, and the late Varane.
However, Everton believe Branthwaite’s nationality, left-footedness and age of just 21 mean he is particularly valuable. They have looked at the £80m price tag United paid for Maguire in 2019, along with the £77m fee Josko Gvardiol commanded last summer and Wesley Fofana’s £70m cost in 2022 and are looking for a similar amount .
But Everton, who have received two-point deductions this season, may need to sell players by June 30 to comply with the Profitability and Sustainability Rules and Branthwaite could raise the biggest sum – even if United’s own FFP concerns could limit their budget.
United hope to wrap up some of their summer business soon after new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe takes control of football operations. Jason Wilcox, who has joined as technical director, is playing a key role in recruiting.
Branthwaite made his England debut this month as a substitute against Bosnia and Herzegovina but was not part of Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad for Euro 2024. However, United see him as a player for their future.
United are also looking for a striker, with Ivan Toney, Jonathan David and Joshua Zirkzee on their list as they look for an alternative to Rasmus Hojlund. Furthermore, they are likely to look for another steering wheel. They are also in talks with Jonny Evans, their longest-serving defender, over a new deal.
