“Forget it…” – Man Utd receive transfer setback for Sir Jim Ratcliffe favourite after owners speak out

Manchester United have received a transfer setback for one of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s favourite potential signings this week.

Manchester United are already looking ahead to upcoming transfer windows to help bolster Ruben Amorim’s team at Old Trafford.

Jarrad Branthwaite agreed to a contract with the Reds last summer and was a priority signing, but Everton turned down offers of £45 million and £50 million during that time.

The Toffees were strict in their transfer approach and so were United – the new regime at Old Trafford did not want to bow down to demands they deemed as excessive.

But that hasn’t ended United’s interest in the 22-year-old, with prior reports suggesting that he is the ‘perfect’ defender for Amorim’s system.

The new United head coach uses a back three formation and the wide centre-backs need to be comfortable defending in wide areas, which is something Branthwaite possesses.

Everton’s new owners send Branthwaite message

The Friedkin Group, which also owns Roma and is led by American billionaire Dan Friedkin, finally acquired a majority stake in Everton this week following uncertainty over their ownership situation for months.

According to a new report from iNews, the Friedkin Group are ‘are committed to strengthening the first team and any clubs expecting a cheap deal on Jarrad Branthwaite can forget it’.

This strongly suggests any cut-price deal for the centre-back will be very difficult for United to do, with the defender still valued at around £80 million.

However, it has also been suggested that Branthwaite is unlikely to sign a new contract at Goodison Park, with his current deal expiring in the summer of 2027.

Everton still have time on their side but will also be considering the fact his value could plummet further, especially since the defender has only started six games this season and looked far from impressive when United beat them 4-0.

Ratcliffe wants Branthwaite at Old Trafford

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is said to ‘remains eager’ to sign Branthwaite despite the setbacks from last summer and he will likely be a key target next summer.

This is important to note as it appeared to be Dan Ashworth pushing for the signing of the centre-back beforehand and he has since departed the club.

Read More: David Ornstein reveals Man United’s January transfer plan after Dan Ashworth exit

Jason Wilcox has taken on the responsibilities of the sporting director role but United’s interest in Branthwaite remains, in part due to the opinion of Ratcliffe.

The British billionaire originally was set to have minimal involvement in such things but reports have suggested he is taking more responsibility than initially expected.

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