Everton will not entertain any bids to part ways with 23-year-old English international Jarrad Branthwaite in the winter transfer window.
According to a report by TEAMtalk, Jarrad Branthwaite is the subject of interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils are keen on reinforcing their defensive unit by signing a centre-back next year amid Harry Maguire’s advancing age. So, the 23-year-old Everton defender has emerged as a target.
However, a winter move will not materialise, as the Toffees are not interested in parting ways with the Englishman midway through the season. Meanwhile, whenever Branthwaite leaves Everton, he will not come cheap, with the Merseyside outfit slapping a price tag of £70 million on him.
Jarrad Branthwaite and his meteoric rise
Jarrad Branthwaite has established himself as one of the best young prospects in the Premier League in the last two seasons. The 23-year-old has been a mainstay at the back for Everton since returning from a fruitful loan spell with PSV Eindhoven, making significant progress during this period.
The English international has turned out nearly 100 times thus far for Everton while chipping in with four goals and two assists. Meanwhile, Branthwaite’s exploits have not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs, particularly from the Premier League. Manchester United will be among the prospective suitors vying for his signature next year, with Everton valuing him at £70 million.
Move across the Premier League on the cards?
Jarrad Branthwaite has been on Manchester United’s radar for a long time. The continued interest makes sense, as Harry Maguire is on the wrong side of 30 and approaching the twilight of his career. While the former Manchester United captain has been resurrecting his reputation under Ruben Amorim, he is no longer a long-term solution at the heart of the defence.
Additionally, Luke Shaw’s long-term future at Manchester United is uncertain. So, the Premier League bigwigs can do with a new centre-back, with Branthwaite emerging as a viable target. Everton’s asking price of £70 million is also understandable, considering the 23-year-old English defender’s age profile and potential.
However, a winter move will not materialise, as the Toffees are not interested in parting ways with Branthwaite midway through the 2025/26 season. So, Manchester United must wait until the summer to land the Englishman’s signature.
