Manchester United are leading the race to sign Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton – and the Red Devils are in line to sign the centre-back for a bargain price.
Branthwaite has enjoyed an excellent couple of seasons, first starring at PSV on loan before returning to Goodison Park, where he played a key role as the Toffees secured Premier League survival.
The form of the 21-year-old has been so strong that he has been included in England’s squad for Euro 2024, although the 6ft 5in defender remains uncapped for now.
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The Sun reports that Man Utd are closing in on a deal for the youngster, with Branthwaite available for a cut-price €47 million (£40m).
New owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe could well make the former Carlisle player the first signing of his era at the club, with the report indicating that a deal could be brokered before 14 June, which is the date the transfer window opens.
Central defence is a priority position for Man Utd this summer, with Raphael Varane set to depart on a free transfer and the probability of Jonny Evans also departing.
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Harry Maguire is another who might leave, with West Ham reportedly interested in the former Leicester and Hull player, yet he turned the Hammers down last summer.
Branthwaite, meanwhile, is on offer at this price because Everton will be pressed into sale as their takeover continues to stall.
Should they fail to abide by the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), they face the prospect of being deducted points next season.
Branthwaite: An immediate upgrade with massive potential
Branthwaite is seen as a bargain at €47m, even if his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) only sits at €23.4m.
His valuation has shot up over the course of the season. This time last year, he was worth only €6.1m.
Man Utd are ready to gamble on Branthwaite continuing this extraordinary trajectory.
Data analytics firm SciSports indicate that he has the potential to become Man Utd’s best player and would be an upgrade on the likes of Varane, Maguire or even Lisandro Martinez.
