Chelsea set to HIJACK €90m Man Utd transfer

Cameron Smith

12 Dec 2024 16:00 GMT
3 min read

Chelsea have been tipped to rival Manchester United for the signing of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in 2025.

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The 22-year-old was expected to seal an Old Trafford transfer this summer, but Man Utd were unwilling to match Everton’s reported asking price of €90 million (£75m) and Branthwaite remained at Goodison Park.

Despite the recent arrivals of Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro, Man Utd remain interested in signing Branthwaite next year and the Red Devils are reportedly keen to test Everton’s resolve with another bid in 2025.

However, former Manchester City defender Richard Dunne believes Chelsea could rival the Old Trafford outfit for his signature as Enzo Maresca continues to search for defensive reinforcements.

Wesley Fofana is currently sidelined through injury and with Axel Disasi widely expected to leave Stamford Bridge in 2025, the Blues may need to dip into the market for a new defender next summer.

What has been said?

“I don’t have any concerns about his ability to play for a club that are expected to win more football games than they lose and challenge for titles. Jarrad Branthwaite can definitely operate at the top end of the table in the Premier League,” Dunne told LondonWorld.

“I think a few clubs will be looking at him. If Manchester United’s interest has moved on with all of the changes that are happening at the club, then I think a team like Chelsea would definitely be interested in him.

“I think he has the right kind of profile to play for them and any of the top four clubs.”

Branthwaite has made just seven Premier League appearances for Everton so far this season after missing the first few weeks of the campaign due to a groin injury.

The 22-year-old’s current contract at Goodison Park runs until 2027, while his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) stands at €30.1m.

Read more about: Premier League, Chelsea, Everton, Man Utd, Jarrad Branthwaite