Manchester United have suffered a major blow in pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite, with Everton unlikely to sell him after Amadou Onana’s departure.
Manchester United are keen on acquiring the services of Jarrad Branthwaite as they look to reinforce their backline this summer. Everton have already rejected multiple bids from the Red Devils for their defensive star. United’s interest remains intact, but according to David Ornstein, they have suffered a major blow as the Toffees step to block a potential transfer following the departure of Amaduo Onana.
Branthwaite made a name for himself during a loan spell at PSV Eindhoven and on the back of it, he got an extended run in Everton’s first team last season. The 22-year-old centre-back ended up starting in 35 Premier League games, and he even found the back of the net thrice.
He might not have made it to the England squad. But his performances have not gone unnoticed. Multiple top clubs have been linked with him and Manchester United are the ones, who have been pushing hard to sign the young centre-back.
The Red Devils had an injury crisis at the back last season. It was one of the major reasons for their struggles and following Raphael Varane’s departure, the new-look recruitment team are looking to bring in multiple world-class defenders.
Everton to block Branthwaite exit
Jarrad Branthwaite is one of their priority targets following his exceptional rise over the last two years. They have been pushing hard for his signature. The Merseyside club have rejected two of their offers so far. While Manchester United are looking to return with a third proposal, Ornstein believes Everton’s chances of selling their defensive ace have all but ended following Onana’s move to Aston Villa.
While it is not yet a done deal, Aston Villa are reportedly very close to signing the Belgian international in a deal worth around £50 million. The money raised will help them significantly and will also help them keep hold of their other stars. With Everton looking to bounce back, they will not let Branthwaite leave unless their a massive offer something close to what Manchester United had forked out for Harry Maguire back in the back.
