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Topics: Manchester United, Transfer News, Premier League, Everton, Erik Ten Hag, Gareth Southgate
Alex Brotherton
Topics: Manchester United, Transfer News, Premier League, Everton, Erik Ten Hag, Gareth Southgate
Everton have reportedly set their asking price for Jarrad Branthwaite amid concrete interest from Manchester United.
United minority owners INEOS - headed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe - are looking to revamp the United squad during the first transfer window since investing in the club.
Though the future of manager Erik ten Hag is still unclear, there are areas of the squad that will be strengthened this summer regardless of who ends up sitting in the dugout next season.
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Defence is a main priority following the departure of Raphael Varane and the injury struggles endured all season by the likes of Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire.
United have identified Everton youngster Jarrad Branthwaite as their top target, after the 21-year-old impressed during his first full season playing in the Premier League.
Everton are of course reluctant to allow the centre-back to leave, but according to the Liverpool Echo, the Toffees have placed a £75 million price tag on him.
United have spent big on defenders in the past, so there is every chance that they decide to splash the cash to get Branthwaite.
The youngster was a surprise omission from Gareth Southgate's England squad for Euro 2024, but missing out on the tournament could help persuade United to make a move.
That's because United would have had to wait until after the Euros to approach Everton and Branthwaite had he been selected, as the Football Association does not allow clubs, agents and players to make transfer agreements while away on international duty.
United executives are believed to want finalise a deal for the 21-year-old prior to June 30, so that they can focus on making several other signings across key positions this summer.
Branthwaite - who made his senior England debut in the 3-0 win against Bosnia & Herzegovina on Monday - has been playing with a groin injury that could soon require minor surgery.
However, that is unlikely to dissuade United, especially now that they could wrap up a deal early doors in the transfer window.