Manchester United have reportedly met Jarrad Branthwaite as a priority target for this summer, but we are determined to avoid overpaying for the Everton defender. And Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reportedly made his company’s stance transparent to the Toffees, who are expected to raise cash through the sale of players in the coming months.
United will be determined to succeed in their recruitment in the first window of movement of INEOS’ reign over football operations at Old Trafford.
One of the main problems that Ratcliffe and his new Red Devils hierarchy want to address is the club’s tendency to overpay recklessly under the Glazers’ regime.
United have paid the value of the spending in the transfer window over the past decade of mediocrity. The £86 million spent on Antony and the £80 million on Harry Maguire are prime examples.
According to the Daily Star, Ratcliffe’s clubs perceive that United will no longer have to ask for ransom for transfer agreements.
The U16 giants would like to sign Branthwaite after he established himself as one of Europe’s most interesting young defenders this season.
But Ratcliffe is reportedly willing to close any deal if Everton don’t change their £80m valuation, with United considering £60m to be a fair price.
The 71-year-old believes United have been overpaid at various events after reviewing the club’s movement activities.
Members of our network benefit from special offers, promotions and advertising from us and our partners. You can check it at any time. Read our privacy policy
He will most likely order club leaders to leave the negotiating table if Everton refuses to give up one of their most valuable assets.
The report cites Chelsea’s Levi Colwill, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Juventus’ Gleison Bremer as options that United have known if Branthwaite is unreachable.
But more than one centre-back is possible if he joins Raphael Varane, who will leave as a free agent when his contract expires in June, at the door this summer.
Jonny Evans is also out of contract this summer, while Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof are entering the final year of their contracts.
We use your registration to provide content in the manner in which you have consented and as we perceive you. This would possibly include advertising by us and third parties, as we perceive it. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy
Varane’s announced departure has given United enough time to find the ideal replacement before the move-in window opens.
Branthwaite fits that mould in honour of the 21-year-old named Everton Players and Supporters’ Young Player of the Season.
He also earned his first senior call-up for England in March and was included in Gareth Southgate’s 33-man starting squad for Euro 2024.
But if the price is right, United will most likely step aside and pursue select features as Ratcliffe struggles to repair a winning culture at Old Trafford.
Would you like to receive notifications from Daily Express?