Everton give Man Utd asking price update after takeover attempt falls through

Everton have given Manchester United a fresh update surrounding their asking price for defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

United were heavily linked with the centre-back early in the summer window, and saw a bid of £50 million rejected by the Toffees earlier in July.

Erik ten Hag's side have since signed Lille centre-back Leny Yoro for the same initial fee, with the club fending off interest from several clubs to land the 18-year-old.

But The Telegraph report that they could yet revive their interest in Branthwaite after an attempted takeover of Everton by The Friedkin Group fell through on Friday.

Announcing the takeover collapse, Everton wrote in a statement: "The Friedkin Group will remain a lender to the Club and is proud of playing a key role in enabling the new stadium to be built, which will help ensure a bright future for both Everton and the City of Liverpool.

"Blue Heaven Holdings maintains a positive relationship with The Friedkin Group and would like to thank them for the time and effort they have put into this process."

Now, Everton have reportedly informed United of their asking price for Branthwaite following their previous demand of £70 million - and it doesn't exactly signal their desire to sell.

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In fact, nothing has changed as far as the Toffees are concerned, with The Athletic claiming that they categorically will not sell the 22-year-old unless United meet their valuation.

But minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe's priorities appear to have shifted in the meantime, with United said to be in advanced talks to sign PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

There have been doubts over the future of Victor Lindelof, though, and while Lisandro Martinez is back to full fitness following an injury-hit 2023/24 season, United may still decide to dip back into the market if one of their defenders does depart.