Everton is reportedly seeking a fee of at least £80m from Manchester United for their young defender Jarrad Branthwaite. While United has already agreed on personal terms with Branthwaite’s representatives, Everton is reluctant to sell the 21-year-old player. Many believe that Branthwaite was unlucky to miss out on selection for England’s European Championship squad, and Everton views him as a future England regular. In fact, the club rates him in the same bracket as renowned defenders Harry Maguire and Josko Gvardiol, who were both signed for significant fees.
Maguire, who joined United from Leicester in 2019, cost the club £80m. Similarly, Gvardiol’s move to Manchester City from RB Leipzig last summer came with a price tag of €90m, approximately £77m at the time. Branthwaite, who has impressed as a left-sided central defender for Everton, played a crucial role in helping the club avoid relegation last season, despite suffering two points deductions.
It remains uncertain whether Everton needs to sell players before June 30th to comply with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations. However, United is actively targeting central defense as an area they want to strengthen. Following the departure of Raphael Varane and injuries to Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, and Victor Lindelof last season, United is looking to bolster their defensive options. Talks are also underway with veteran Northern Ireland international Jonny Evans for a new deal.
As the transfer window opens on Friday, Manchester United is expected to approach Everton about Branthwaite. However, given Everton’s reluctance to sell and their belief in the player’s potential, the response from the Merseyside club is likely to be frosty. Only time will tell if Manchester United can convince Everton to part ways with their promising young defender.