Real Madrid stance on summer Jarrad Branthwaite transfer mooted as star nears Everton exit
Despite links with Real Madrid, Manchester United believe they are the only "serious" contenders in the race for Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite, according to talkSPORT.
The outlet reported on its website on Thursday (13 June) that the Red Devils have agreed to personal terms with the 21-year-old defender ahead of the summer transfer window having begun transfer talks with the Toffees.
Sean Dyche's side are believed to value the centre-back upwards of £70million, but United are determined not to overpay for his services, especially as they are the only real suitors available this summer.
Will Real Madrid consider late transfer swoop for Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite?
Everton would have hoped that a bidding war would have broken out for Branthwaite this summer at Goodison Park so that they could drive up his price between now and the end of the window, but that seems unlikely.
United seem to be the only club ready to act on their interest in the centre-back and unless something changes in the next couple of days, the Red Devils may well have a free run at securing his signature this summer.
Madrid's interest has long been mooted and they would be one of the clubs with the financial power to blow away the Toffees' asking price, but they already possess strong defensive options and will likely recruit higher up the field instead.
Hopefully, Manchester United will at least match the Blues' asking price rather than attempt to lowball them with any poor offers. Everton have made their terms clear and it now just has to be seen if the Red Devils will match them.
A late bid from Real Madrid would certainly spice things up so early in the summer, but at this moment in time, that seems incredibly unlikely at Goodison Park.
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