HERE WE GO: Jarrad Branthwaiteto Man United finally completed after 3rd offer accepted,player now in Manchester to undergo medical today as new Man United signing – welcome to Old Trafford
Manchester United’s efforts to secure Everton’s standout defender Jarrad Branthwaite have encountered another setback. Samuel Luckhurst of the Manchester Evening News has disclosed that a second bid from Erik ten Hag’s team, valued at £35 million, has been turned down by Everton.
Erik ten Hag, who recently extended his contract to remain at Old Trafford until June 2026, is eager to bolster his defensive lineup following Manchester United’s worst defensive performance since the 1978/79 season. The need for defensive reinforcements has been further emphasized by Raphael Varane’s departure.
In addition to Branthwaite, Manchester United has shown interest in other defensive talents, including Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt and Lille’s Leny Yoro, as potential additions to strengthen the back line.
Manchester United’s Second Bid for Branthwaite Rejected
Despite Manchester United’s interest, Everton remains firm on their £70 million valuation of Branthwaite. Both Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez spent significant portions of the last season sidelined due to injuries. Consequently, midfielder Casemiro had to fill in as a central defender in seven different matches across all competitions, highlighting the club’s urgent need for defensive reinforcements.
Branthwaite, a central defender from Carlisle, emerged as Manchester United’s top target in the lead-up to the summer transfer window. According to The Athletic, Manchester United’s initial offer of £35 million for Branthwaite was quickly rejected by Everton.
Undeterred, Manchester United made a second attempt to secure Branthwaite by returning to negotiations with an improved bid of approximately £45 million, including £5 million in add-ons. However, this offer was also rejected by Everton. Samuel Luckhurst reported on X (formerly Twitter) that Everton’s asking price remains above £70 million.
Everton’s valuation of the promising 21-year-old defender is comparable to high-profile defenders like Josko Gvardiol, Wesley Fofana, and Harry Maguire. As such, Everton is unlikely to lower their demands until the closing stages of the summer transfer window.
Branthwaite played 35 Premier League matches for Everton last season and is considered a crucial player by manager Sean Dyche. Despite being omitted from England’s preliminary Euro 2024 squad, Branthwaite’s importance to Everton makes any move for him by Manchester United and Erik ten Hag’s team increasingly challenging.
