Manchester United are reportedly keen on signing 21-year-old Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer.
According to a report from Daily Mirror, Manchester United are now prepared to walk away from the deal for 21-year-old Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite because of his prohibitive asking price.
That defender is valued at £70 million, and it remains to be seen whether Everton are prepared to lower their demands in the coming weeks. The 21-year-old has established himself as one of the best young defenders in the country, and he has been outstanding in the Premier League for the Toffees. There is no doubt that he is good enough to play for a club like Manchester United, and he could improve them immensely.
It will be interesting to see if the Red Devils decide to test Everton’s resolve with a substantial offer in the next few days. They have already failed with a rumoured offer of around £35 million for the defender.
Jarrad Branthwaite is still quite young, and he is likely to improve with coaching and experience. He has the attributes to develop into a top class player in the near future. Even if Manchester United have to pay a premium for him now, the defender has the potential to justify the investment in the coming seasons.
Manchester United looked quite vulnerable defensively last season, and they need to improve in that department if they want to compete for major trophies and return to the UEFA Champions League.
Branthwaite would improve Manchester United
The Everton defender would certainly help them improve defensively, and he could form a quality partnership with Lisandro Martinez. French defender Raphael Varane has left the club this summer, and he will need to be replaced adequately.
Even if Manchester United decide to walk away from a deal for the Everton star they must look to bring in a quality central defender this summer. They cannot hope to go into the new season with their current defensive options. It will be interesting to see If Manchester United can resolve the situation and improve their squad before the summer transfer window closes.
Meanwhile, the 21-year-old Everton defender will hope that he can secure a big move this summer. Jarrad Branthwaite will want to compete at the highest level and the opportunity to play for Manchester United will be quite attractive for him.
