EXCLUSIVE: Ashworth pushes Branthwaite to Man Utd as Everton set price

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 12 Mar 2024 23:04 GMT
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Dan Ashworth is pushing a deal for Jarrad Branthwaite to join Manchester United, FootballTransfers can reveal.

The former Newcastle executive, who’s currently on gardening leave from the Magpies, has persuaded Ineos that the 21-year-old is the player the club must build their backline around.

Man Utd have had an interest in the youngster for a while - Erik ten Hag had pinpointed the former Carlisle player at one point - but it’s Ashworth who is now hoping to conclude a swift deal.

We are told now that Man Utd are heavily involved in getting a deal over the line for the summer. Sources inform us that Everton will demand £75million for the centre-back, though there is an idea that an initial £65m will be enough, as well as add-ons.

READ MORE: Latest Man Utd transfer news

The Toffees are reluctant to see the defender leave Goodison Park - but their situation around the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Regulations means that they must offload the player.

Who else are Man Utd targeting?

As reported yesterday by FootballTransfers, Michael Olise and Branthwaite are high on Ineos’ list of transfer targets this summer window. The Crystal Palace star is open to an Old Trafford switch and personal terms are not expected to be a problem. FootballTransfers understands that the winger has a release clause of around £60m in his deal, which any club can activate.

READ MORE: Man Utd top scorers 2023/24

Antony's less-than-impressive displays this season, coupled with the anticipated departure of Erik ten Hag in the summer, have prompted the club to actively seek a right-sided attacker who can secure a starting position in the upcoming season.

While uncertainties linger around Jadon Sancho's future, particularly in light of Ten Hag's likely exit, Ineos are not inclined to leave this matter to chance. As we reported before, Marcus Edwards from Sporting CP has emerged as a viable option for Manchester United, with the club placing an approximate valuation of €41 million (£35m) on the talented player.