Man United Handed major Boost in Pursuit of £80m Everton’s star Defender as Potential Varane Replacement

Man United Handed major Boost in Pursuit of £80m Everton’s star Defender as Potential Varane Replacement

Manchester United have received a massive boost in their pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

The Toffees, amid their financial difficulties, may be forced to sell one of their most marketable assets and the 21-year-old ace falls into that category, according to The Sun.

Erik ten Hag and his entourage have endured a tumultuous season – both on the performance and injury front.

In particular, a host of centre-backs, including Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, have spent large chunks of the season on the treatment table.

Reports in March suggested that the 13-time Premier League champions had been keen admirers of Branthwaite for years.

The Englishman, called up for the senior squad’s March fixtures, has enjoyed an impressive breakout season in the English top flight, forming a promising partnership with the seasoned James Tarkowski.

Valued at £80m by Toffees.
Sean Dyche and his entourage are eager to retain the 21-year-old’s services for another season at least but may find their hands tied financially.

So far this season, Everton have been docked a total of eight points for their breaches in regard to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules during the last two assessment periods.

To add, Everton are heavily in debt and are relying on the long-awaited takeover from 777 Partners for financial aid to prevent the prospect of entering administration.

To put it simply, selling Branthwaite this summer would alleviate the pressure on the club’s accounts.

And, although they are mathematically safe from relegation this time around, the club’s higher-ups will be eager not to be put in a similar position come next campaign.

As such, the Red Devils – who, according to the report, are favourites to strike a deal for Carlisle-born Branthwaite – could pounce on his employers’ precarious situation with them in desperate need of a cash injection before the current campaign officially comes to a close.

Branthwaite, who recently scored in his side’s unforeseen 2-0 win over arch-rivals Liverpool, is currently valued at £80 million but, given the circumstances, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Co will be looking to close a deal for a much significantly less figure.