Manchester United Pursuing Jarrad Branthwaite Amid Fee Negotiations

Manchester United are setting their sights on young defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer transfer window. However, negotiations with Everton over the fee have hit a roadblock, with the Merseyside club valuing the player at over £70 million. Despite this, sources have indicated that Branthwaite is eager to make the move to Old Trafford, and talks with his representatives have been positive.

If Everton remains unwilling to budge on their asking price for Branthwaite, United are prepared to look at alternative options in the market. The club has identified other center-back targets such as Marc Guéhi, Jean-Clair Todibo, Leny Yoro, and Matthijs de Ligt. Should negotiations with Everton falter, United will be ready to shift their focus to these other potential signings.

Financial Constraints

Everton’s valuation of Branthwaite is believed to be influenced by the precedent set by Josko Gvardiol’s move from RB Leipzig to Manchester City for approximately £77 million. The Toffees are standing firm on their asking price, citing Gvardiol’s transfer as a basis for their valuation. However, United are operating with a restricted transfer budget this summer, and the fee paid for a center-back will impact their ability to pursue other targets during the window.

In addition to strengthening their defense, United are also in the market for a striker and a central midfielder. The club is considering both marquee signings and more affordable options to bolster their squad for the upcoming season. To boost their transfer funds, United are looking to offload players like Jadon Sancho and Mason Greenwood, who are valued at around £40 million each. Permanent deals are the preferred option, with loan moves being considered as a secondary choice.

As the summer transfer window progresses, Manchester United’s pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite remains a top priority. While negotiations with Everton have hit a snag due to the valuation of the player, United are keeping their options open and exploring alternative targets in the market. With financial constraints impacting their transfer activities, United are strategizing how best to utilize their budget to address their defensive, attacking, and midfield needs for the upcoming season.