Everton: Jeff Stelling moots £45m Jarrad Branthwaite Man United transfer, Ally McCoist reacts
Jeff Stelling believes Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is likely to sign for Manchester United in the summer transfer window.
Speaking on talkSPORT on Monday (25 March, 09:28am), the host said the Toffees could cash in on the 21-year-old as they need the money, suggesting there is a good chance he will move to Old Trafford in a £45million deal to replace some of their ageing defensive options.
McCoist responded to those claims by saying the centre-back, who has been called up to the England team for this international break, has been “terrific” this season as he suggested a move to the Red Devils would “absolutely make sense”.
“It’s going to happen isn’t it because Everton need the money and their biggest asset, their most-sellable asset is 21-year-old Jarrad Branthwaite,” said Stelling. “He’s made 31 appearances for Everton this season, in the England squad, expect him to play against Belgium and I think he’ll find himself at Old Trafford.
“Never mind Manchester City, it will be Old Trafford I would imagine because with the likes of Lindelof, Varane and Maguire all ageing players, they need to bring in some youth. I’m thinking £45million, something like that for Branthwaite would do the job.”
“I think he could play at any level, anywhere,” added McCoist. “He’s heading in completely the right direction. I think he’s been terrific the times I’ve seen him for Everton. I think he’s a proper old school centre-half as well, he can pass it, he can mix it up and can play.
“I genuinely think he’s going right to the top and, yes, as we know, Everton desperately need money. It would absolutely make sense and none more so than for Manchester United after the centre-halves you just mentioned.”
Could Jarrad Branthwaite leave Everton for Man United?
It would be no surprise whatsoever if Man United were to make an offer for Branthwaite this summer after they’ve sent scouts to watch him this season.
They are likely to face a battle to sign him, though, after he’s been linked with a number of elite clubs across England and Europe over the past few months.
Although the Toffees may not be in a position to turn down a reasonable offer due to their financial situation, they would certainly be looking for more than £45million given how much similar players have moved for in recent years.
Sean Dyche wouldn’t want to lose the centre-back if he can help it, but that decision is probably going to be out of his hands.
The Blues will just be hoping he can help them stay up this season and then, if he is to move on in the summer, they receive a fair deal for their prize asset.
In other Everton news, Moshiri was left without £200million paperwork to sign as a PSR blunder has emerged.
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