Manchester United hit Jarrad Branthwaite problem as journalist explains Everton’s inside view

Manchester United are preparing a £55million bid for Jarrad Branthwaite but are still short of Everton’s evaluation for the centre-back.

According to reports from MailOnline, United will struggle to convince Everton to part ways with the talented youngster, who manager Sean Dyche regards as untouchable.

But with continued problems over the club’s takeover by 777 Partners, who face allegations of fraud in New York, the Merseyside club may be forced to part ways with the Englishman to stay within profit and sustainability rules.

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This was all but confirmed by Everton’s director of football, Kevin Thelwell, who released a letter to fans last weekend, warning them that players “will be sold” and asking for “patience and understanding” regarding the club’s financial situation.

Despite this, Football Transfer journalist Dean Jones believes Manchester United may still have difficulty striking a deal for the 21-year-old.

Speaking on the Ranks FC podcast, he said: “You’ve all read about Jarrad Branthwaite; it’s true, Man United do really like Jarrad Branthwaite and they would like to sign him.

“They don’t really want to spend much more than £50 million on Jarrad Branthwaite, which is a problem because Everton value him a lot higher than that, and United are relying on the fact that Everton are in a financial mess and need to sell players to open the door for them to sign Branthwaite.

“The problem is Everton will probably look to offload someone like Amadou Onana before they have to get to that stage, so it’s going to be difficult.

“But yeah, United love Branthwaite, love how he’s got experience in the league, but also got a lot of room for growth in this league. And obviously, his age and everything fits perfectly.”

In 2020, Everton signed Branthwaite for just £1 million from Carlisle United, but now value the centre-back closer to £80million after he has enjoyed a breakout season.

The 21-year-old has helped Everon keep an impressive 15 clean sheets from 40 matches in all competitions, putting himself into contention for Gareth Southgate‘s England squad in the upcoming EURO 2024 tournament.