Everton to agree Jarrad Branthwaite transfer as ‘cheeky’ Man United claim emerges
Bryan King believes Everton and Manchester United will reach a £50million agreement for Jarrad Branthwaite.
The ex-Goodison scout claims the Toffees had every right to reject the Red Devils' opening offer for the centre-back.
As reported by The Athletic (14 June), Erik Ten Hag's side submitted an initial bid worth £35million for Branthwaite.
The bid was viewed by Everton as "unacceptable", and the Liverpool Echo reported that same day (14 June) that the bid had already been turned down.
However, King - speaking exclusively to Goodison News - feels a deal will get done.
“I don’t think it was a mistake for Everton to reject the offer,” King said.
“I think it was a cheeky bid from Manchester United.
“As I see it, the final agreement will be £50million plus add-ons. If he becomes a regular international, how many appearances he makes for the club etc.”
Will Everton sell Jarrad Branthwaite to Manchester United this summer?
No one would have expected Everton to accept United's opening offer for Branthwaite.
The Toffees are after a premium price for the 21-year-old and £35million certainly didn't fit into that bracket.
However, United will no doubt come again, and this could be a transfer saga which drags on all summer.
It remains to be seen whether or not Branthwaite does end up at Old Trafford, but if the two clubs can agree on a deal worth around £50million, that would probably represent good value for the Toffees.
As reported by The Times (13 June), Branthwaite has already agreed personal terms with United, and that coupled with Everton's financial struggles really undermines the Toffees' negotiating position.
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