Manchester United have made an initial bid of approximately £35 million for Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, which Everton is set to reject.
The bid falls significantly short of the £80 million valuation Everton has placed on Branthwaite. Arsenal has also inquired about the availability of Everton midfielder Amadou Onana.
United have already agreed on personal terms with Branthwaite. However, sources indicate that Everton are unwilling to sell the 21-year-old, who many believe was unfortunate to miss out on the England squad for the European Championship.
Everton is confident that Branthwaite will soon become a regular for England, rating him on par with Harry Maguire and Josko Gvardiol. Maguire joined United for £80 million from Leicester in 2019, and Gvardiol moved to Manchester City for £77 million from RB Leipzig last summer.
Branthwaite has impressed with his performances as a left-sided central defender, contributing significantly to Everton’s successful battle against relegation last season despite two points deductions for financial rule breaches.
In May, Everton’s director of football Kevin Thelwell acknowledged that players “will be sold” this summer, urging fans for “patience and understanding” as the club aims to stabilize its finances.
However, sources suggest that Everton would only consider selling the 22-year-old Belgian midfielder Onana for an offer exceeding £50 million. Onana joined Everton from Lille for £33 million in 2022, and his potential transfer could be complicated by his involvement with the Belgian national team at Euro 2024.
With current profit and sustainability rules (PSR) in effect for next season and the absence of Champions League football, United are open to offers for most of their first-team squad as they seek to raise funds and enhance Erik ten Hag’s team.
United have set a £40 million price tag on their 24-year-old forward Jadon Sancho. Following a two-week performance review that confirmed Ten Hag’s continuation as manager, United are focusing on strengthening their central defence.
Raphael Varane left the club after the FA Cup final, and Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, and Victor Lindelof all faced injuries last season. Veteran Northern Ireland international Jonny Evans also struggled with injuries, though United have confirmed ongoing talks with the 36-year-old regarding a new contract.
