Everton backed to agree super Harry Maguire and Jarrad Branthwaite deal with Man United
Dan Bardell has suggested that swapping Jarrad Branthwaite for Harry Maguire in a player-plus-cash deal prove to be positive for Everton this summer.
A report from The Daily Star (4 May) suggested that Manchester United may use the defender as bait to sign the Toffees’ starlet.
This would see Erik ten Hag’s side part with a transfer fee as well as their captain to sign Branthwaite in the summer transfer window.
With the financial concerns Sean Dyche’s side have dealt with, Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell believes this could prove to be a positive move.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, Bardell said: “It depends how much money was involved. Harry Maguire has had a decent season in fairness and you can label him a lot of things but he’s been one of Manchester United’s better performers this season and I think he always performs well for England.
“Branthwaite is hot property, he’s had a very good season and so have Everton defensively and Branthwaite has been a huge part of that. It’s been a great breakthrough season for him which has culminated in him getting an England call-up.
“Everton need money, we know they’ve been financially mismanaged so any offer of substance that is going to provide a cash injection will be considered because Everton have had problems with PSR and points deductions.
“Getting someone like Maguire in a part exchange with some money, I think that’s a decent deal for Everton, all things considered.”
Should Everton sign Harry Maguire?
If the Toffees are forced into selling Branthwaite this summer then they will certainly need a replacement option to come in.
Alongside James Tarkowski and with Jordan Pickford behind them, Dyche’s side have been one of the best defences in the Premier League.
At 21-years-old the Englishman has been in superb form this campaign and as a result has plenty of admirers ahead of the transfer window.
Maguire is a player who could prove to be a perfect replacement given his experience and the quality that he does possess.
Despite being 10 years older than Branthwaite, he could be a useful stopgap while Everton sounds out a new young defender to then replace Maguire.
He has achieved plenty in his time with Manchester United and with England but has picked up plenty of critics over the years.
Playing in a system that Dyche likes to operate will suit his strengths which are aerial duels and physicality and Ten Hag doesn’t focus on this.
It is a short-term option but a positive signing nonetheless.
In other Everton news, Kevin Thelwell has been told where the Toffees must strengthen in the summer transfer window
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