Everton: Fabrizio Romano shares Jarrad Branthwaite transfer update as Manchester United stance emerges
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is appreciated by Manchester United, but is one of “three or four” names on their shortlist, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The transfer specialist reported via his Daily Briefing column (18 April) that United have been scouting several defensive options ahead of the summer transfer window and could potentially make two centre-back signings if Raphael Varane leaves.
While some have suggested the Englishman may be too expensive for Erik ten Hag this summer, Romano has insisted clubs are still yet to learn the Toffees’ asking price and their interest could still develop into a move.
Discussing the Red Devils’ interest Romano said: “The reality is that it’s still early days on this story – for sure Branthwaite is appreciated by Man United and is one of three or four names on their shortlist, but we’ll have to wait and see if this develops into anything more.
“As for Everton’s price, my understanding is that clubs are still waiting to understand Everton’s decision on the asking price. We have to wait for that.
“But as previously reported, United have been scouting important centre-backs like Jean-Clair Todibo, Gleison Bremer, Antonio Silva, as well as Branthwaite, and they could make at least one signing in that position this summer, or perhaps two, depending on what will happen with Raphael Varane.”
Will Manchester United sign Everton gem Jarrad Branthwaite in the summer transfer window?
It does feel as though Branthwaite’s future could massively depend on whether or not the Toffees manage to keep their place in the Premier League beyond the end of the season.
The Englishman is unlikely to be keen to stay at Goodison Park if Sean Dyche’s side are relegated to the Championship and the relegation could well see the Toffees drop their asking price and open the door for Manchester United.
Branthwaite has been exceptional in his first full season of Premier League football alongside James Tarkowski and it shouldn’t come as a surprise to see some of England’s biggest sides are keeping tabs on him.
Hopefully, Dyche and those around him at Goodison will manage to find a way to keep the centre-back on Merseyside beyond the end of the transfer window, but it will be hard for them to reject bids, especially in their current financial state.
In other Everton news, The Esk has shared an update on the Toffees’ administration fears for the remainder of the season
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