Jarrad Branthwaite exit update emerges at Everton as Manchester United close in on transfer
Manchester United are unlikely to pursue a deal for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite after a Matthijs De Ligt update emerged, according to Jamie Jackson.
The Red Devils are set to confirm the signing of the Bayern Munich defender sooner rather than later, with reports suggesting he is close to making the move to Old Trafford [Fabrizio Romano, 10 August].
United have already signed Leny Yoro as well to bolster their defensive options and while their interest in Branthwaite is genuine, Guardian journalist Jackson believes they are unlikely to have the funds to get a deal over the line.
Speaking on talkSPORT on Sunday (11 August, 7:11) he said: “I think if they get De Ligt, that will probably be it at centre-back because obviously they’ve got Yoro.
“I guess the only thing to throw in there is that Yoro is out for at least three months which is a massive blow to them. I just feel that in regards to funds and who they can get out of the club, they can’t get another major centre-back in which Branthwaite would be.”
Will Jarrad Branthwaite exit Everton amid Manchester United transfer rumours?
This update will have come as a major boost for Everton with the new season on the horizon, as at this point it seems that they have done enough to keep Branthwaite at the club for at least the next few months.
The speculation around the 22-year-old’s future has been around throughout the entirety of the transfer window and while a deal has never appeared to be that close, United’s interest has never completely subsided.
Sean Dyche and his recruitment team have done what they can ahead of the transfer deadline to bolster their options in case he does exit, with the signing of Jake O’Brien viewed by some as almost a succession plan.
However, it now seems more likely that the Irish international will be playing alongside Branthwaite rather than instead of him.
Things can change quickly in the transfer window, so there may well be another twist in this saga before the end of August. But at this moment in time, things are looking good for Everton.
In other Everton news, a Dele Alli update has emerged from Goodison Park as he continues to play a part in Dyche’s pre-season
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