EXCLUSIVE: Man Utd go all-in to beat rivals to Branthwaite

Jacque Talbot

• 28 Mar 2024 12:00 GMT
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Manchester United are going 'all in' for Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the summer transfer window - but Manchester City and Newcastle have emerged as contenders for the England international's signature, too, FootballTransfers can reveal.

Sources have told us that it won’t be smooth sailing for the Red Devils as Real Madrid are keen on the Everton defender, while Man City and Newcastle are also admirers, though it's believed to be unlikely that the centre-back opts to make a move to St James' Park.

As previously reported, Everton will ask for around £75 million for Branthwaite in the upcoming window, though there is an idea that an initial £65m will be enough for Man Utd if add-ons make up the rest of Everton's valuation.

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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 will look to offload the player, who is one of their biggest assets.

What positions are Man Utd targeting?

Bolstering the centre-back position is of high importance to Man Utd, with Raphael Varane having just one season left on his contract and attracting interest from Saudi Arabia.

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The club also want another striker and a right-back, though we are told by sources close to Diogo Dalot that the Portugal international is willing to stay and fight for his place at Old Trafford and has no desire to leave regardless of any new recruits they bring in.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe will look to maximise spending in the summer, but the overall budget is contingent on Man Utd's European prospects.

During the recent international break, Branthwaite did not feature for England, with Gareth Southgate choosing Joe Gomez and Ezri Konsa instead.