Man Utd plot BARGAIN €50m move for Real Madrid target

Cameron Smith

• 30 Jan 2024 07:00 GMT
• 3 min read

Manchester United are reportedly keen to press ahead in their pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite amid serious competition from Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Erik ten Hag’s side are in the market for a new centre-back and Branthwaite is one of several names currently on their transfer wish-list.

Tottenham Hotspur were also keen on signing the Everton star before they landed Radu Dragusin from Genoa, with Spurs’ interest in both players first reported by FootballTransfers.

However, Man Utd are keen to wrap up a deal to sign Branthwaite and are preparing a €47 million (£40m) offer, according to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport (via The Evening Standard).

We have previously been told that Everton value the Englishman close to €90m, meaning Man Utd are unlikely to be successful in their pursuit unless their offer increases.

Andy Cole concerned by Man Utd’s Jarrad Branthwaite pursuit

Despite Branthwaite’s form so far this season, Man Utd legend Andy Cole is not convinced he is the right option for his former club.

He recently admitted: “He’s done really well for Everton this season. When you’re performing for a struggling side and people are talking about your performances in a positive light, then you must be playing very well. However, the question is, is he better than Harry Maguire?

"Harry Maguire since he’s come back into Manchester United’s team this season has played like the Harry Maguire we saw at Leicester City. Take away Jarrad’s age, is he better than Harry Maguire? Will he improve Manchester United?

"These are the questions that you need to ask yourself as a prospective buyer...Manchester United need to buy players that improve their side because if they continue to buy players of a similar standard to what they’ve already got, then they’re not going to move forward.”

Branthwaite has made 24 appearances for Everton so far this season, while he currently has three-and-a-half years remaining on his current contract at Goodison Park after signing a new deal in October 2023.