Man United could have encountered a problem in their pursuit of top target, Jarrad Branthwaite.
Manchester United have been heavily linked with a move to sign Jarrad Branthwaite this summer, with the centre-half emerging as a top transfer target. However, a deal to sign the Englishman may not be all plain sailing.
As has been widely reported, money is expected to be tight under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS this summer, as the new Reds owners look to tighten the belt and comply with FFP rulings at the same time.
However, as a result, that could scupper the Reds’ move to acquire Branthwaite.
It’s ESPN with the story, who claim that United have hit a possible ‘stumbling block’ in the chase. Everton’s asking price, which could be as much as £75million, after Branthwaite signed a new deal until 2027 just last October.
United are looking to add at least one centre-back this summer, which makes sense given Raphael Varane is leaving. Jonny Evans (and others) may yet follow.
Branthwaite has been tracked by United scouts ever since making his debut for Carlisle United as a teenager. They’re also impressed by his 2023/24 season for Everton.
The Reds view Branthwaite as someone who could replace Varane in the right-sided centre-back role, despite the fact he is left-footed.
If a deal for the Everton man proves too difficult, a move to bring in Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer is also a possibility. However, as things stand, Newcastle United are leading the chase for his signature.
Branthwaite once again appears to be the top man for United, though securing his signature is not going to be as straightforward as initially thought.
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