Jarrad Branthwaite transfer twist emerges as Man United star could head to Everton in trade

Jarrad Branthwaite's prospective transfer from Everton to Manchester United could see an Old Trafford defender move the other way, according to HITC.

The news outlet reported that while the Toffees rejected United's first bid for the 21-year-old defender, citing Branthwaite's £70million valuation, they are lining up replacements should the centre-back depart [Sunday People].

One player the Blues are historically keen on already plies his trade at Manchester United and has seven seasons of Premier League experience to boot - Swedish international Victor Lindelof.

The 29-year-old is reportedly going to be pushed towards the exit door at Old Trafford this summer, creating the potential of Lindelof being included as a sweetener in any deal done for Branthwaite to go the other way.

Lindelof transfer could help Everton to plug Branthwaite gap

Everton are adamant that Branthwaite will not leave Goodison Park for any less than the £70million price tag they have set, citing the £80million fee Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire five years ago [Liverpool Echo].

Financial fair play pressures appear to be United's best bet of signing Branthwaite for less than that amount, with the Toffees potentially needing to sell at least one of their high-value stars before 30 June.

However, if Branthwaite remains at the club beyond that date, Erik ten Hag's next-best option could be to include Lindelof, signed for a reported £30.7million fee in 2017, as a makeweight.

While his game-time has decreased year-on-year since the 2019/20 Premier League season, Lindelof would still bring plenty of club and international experience to Sean Dyche's squad at Goodison Park.

It remains to be seen if Everton can keep hold of their prize asset this summer, but if they are to finally relent on Branthwaite's £70million valuation, they could do much worse than demanding the signature of Lindelof as part of the transfer [Sunday Mirror].

In other Everton news, a star player is expected to leave the club after an approach was made on Friday according to Alan Myers.

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