Ex-Everton staff reveals final Jarrad Branthwaite fee but blasts player for Manchester United move

Manchester United have seemingly identified Jarrad Branthwaite as their first-choice transfer option at centre-back this summer.

Manchester United are in serious need of defensive reinforcements this summer following a season where the club conceded 81 goals across all competitions, including a record 52 in the Premier League.

With Raphaël Varane leaving and the futures of Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelöf, and Jonny Evans remaining unclear this summer, the club have already agreed personal terms with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite during the opening days of the transfer window.

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On Friday, the club launched a bid of £35 million plus a further £8 in add-ons, although the Merseyside team is said to have rejected this. A fee of over £70 million was reportedly demanded.

However, former professional footballer and, more importantly, ex-Everton scout Bryan King has explained that the final fee will be around £50 million plus add-ons.

“I don’t think it was a mistake for Everton to reject the offer,” King told Goodison News. “I think it was a cheeky bid from Manchester United.

“As I see it, the final agreement will be £50 million plus add-ons. If he becomes a regular international, how many appearances he makes for the club etc.”

King went on to blast Branthwaite for the move, explaining that he feels the 21-year-old will be making the “same mistake” as Harry Maguire by moving to United.

“To me, he is just a young Harry Maguire. He makes the same mistakes as Maguire. United paid £80 million for Maguire, and it looks as if they’re going to make a similar mistake.

“I would have thought they would be looking for a player above this quality. Branthwaite is unproven and is yet to show that he is even a £50 million centre-back.

“Everton should be biting United’s hands off.”

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