Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite is reportedly interested in a departure this summer, with interest from two Premier League sides, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.
According to several reports, the English defender has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs and is the most frequently linked name to Old Trafford this summer.
Jarrad Branthwaite Transfer: How much will Manchester United pay?
The Red Devils are desperately in need of a few central defenders heading into the summer window and have been linked with several names such as Jean-Clair Todibo and Ronald Araujo.
Johny Evans who was a short-term option for Man United will leave Old Trafford at the end of this season. Branthwaite has enjoyed a breakthrough season at Everton and has been widely cited as one of United’s top priorities this summer.
Some major changes are anticipated in the United dressing room in the summer with Sir Jim Ratcliffe keen to orchestrate a major rebuild at Old Trafford. Braithwaite has played a pivotal role in Everton’s Premier League survival this season, turning out 39 times for the Toffees while chipping in three goals.
Everton manager Sean Dyche would be keen to find a way to keep the defender at Merseyside beyond the summer but would be tempted to listen to offers given Everton’s current financial state.
The Toffees are reportedly willing to entertain offers in the region of Ā£80million which might be too expensive for Erik ten Hag this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Romano said: āThe reality is that itās still early days on this story ā for sure Branthwaite is appreciated by Man United and is one of three or four names on their shortlist, but weāll have to wait and see if this develops into anything more.
āAs for Evertonās price, my understanding is that clubs are still waiting to understand Evertonās decision on the asking price. We have to wait for that.ā
The Ā£80 million price tag could deter some interested parties this summer but Ratcliffe will be to mark his arrival with a few marquee signings this summer. Signing one of the best young talents in Europe would display a major sign of intent for the new Manchester United owner.
It is also reported that United will use Harry Maguire as bait to bring down Everton’s asking price to an admissible figure.
ALSO READ: