According to our sources, Premier League side Everton have revealed their minimum price tag for Manchester United target Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
The Toffees are demanding £80 million for the young centre-back who is attracting a lot of attention from elite clubs this season.
The English star returned to Goodison Park this year after an impressive loan spell at Dutch club PSV Eindhoven.
Since then, he has played 25 games this season, scored two goals and kept seven clean sheets. Hence, clubs like Man United and Chelsea are already keeping an eye on the defender.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to rope in a quality young defender who can be the next superstar. However, finding one is a difficult task at this stage.
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Branthwaite might tick some of the boxes but he still needs to prove himself more. Chelsea are also ready to take a step if the player continues to improve as the months pass by.
The 21-year-old’s defensive solidity has helped the Toffees avoid the relegation zone.
United have issues to deal with when it comes to managing their current crop of centre-backs. Players like Jonny Evans and Raphael Varane’s future at the club is uncertain.
They are injury prone and it would be no surprise if they decide to part ways with the club. Victor Lindelof’s inconsistent performances bring more burden to the backline.
Hence, it is logical to think that the Red Devils are eyeing a young player who can build himself at Old Trafford and provide long-term success.
Should Man United pay £80m for Branthwaite?
Considering other cheaper options in the transfer market, we believe that United shouldn’t go for such astronomical demands. Everton would always be open to such a huge sum of money but it doesn’t help Ratcliffe’s side.
The English ace has a lot to prove in the league and he needs experience to show before any team decides to splash such a world-record fee for a defender.
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United signed Harry Maguire from Leicester City for the same fee that Everton are demanding for Branthwaite.
In our opinion, the club should keep an eye on the player but avoid falling into such costly transfer traps.
