Harry Maguire among Manchester United quartet who could leave as Everton ace Jarrad Branthwaite targeted
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is being targeted by Manchester United as part of a defensive overhaul, according to ESPN.
The online publication reported on Friday [19 January] that Harry Maguire – a one-time Everton target – and Victor Lindelof could be sold by United if the right offers are tabled.
Jonny Evans is out of contract, meanwhile, and Raphael Varane could also be on his way out of Old Trafford in the next six months.
Branthwaite is supposedly one of three players being eyed up by United to head the opposite direction.
The ESPN report by Rob Dawson read: “United, according to a source, hold an interest in Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt and Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo.”
Keep hold
Branthwaite is Everton’s prized asset right now and it will take an awful lot to tempt Everton to cash in.
While the club’s financial problems are well-publicised, they are not in a position whereby players need to be offloaded – not yet, at least.
Once new owners are in place, whether that is 777 Partners or someone else, the hope is that Everton can focus on strengthening the squad.
There are financial rules to abide by – like anyone needs reminding – but keeping hold of Branthwaite for at least another 18 months has to be a priority.
The England Under-21s international has been sensational under Sean Dyche this season and is the type of player a team can be built around.
United may be a big name, but Everton have to persuade Branthwaite that there is no better place for him right now than Goodison Park.
In other Everton news, Yannick Bolasie sent a four-word message as a long-serving player’s time at Goodison Park officially came to an end.
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