Jarrad Branthwaite to Man Utd update, deal for Everton ace still alive despite Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt moves

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Manchester United have not completely checked out of a move for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

Jarrad Branthwaite was the first centre-back to really emerge as a Manchester United transfer target this summer.

Manchester United submitted two offers, both of which were rejected by Everton, who evaded PSR issues with other sales, cashing in on Amadou Onana to Aston Villa.

Meanwhile, Manchester United have signed two of Europe’s best centre-backs, Leny Yoro, 18, and Matthijs de Ligt, 25.

Does that mean United’s interest in Jarrad Branthwaite is dead? Not necessarily…

Jarrad Branthwaite latest

Manchester United’s admiration for Jarrad Branthwaite remains. The Everton centre-back is still a very talented prospect, that has not changed.

The problem was always Everton’s high valuation, with the Toffees holding on for a £70 million asking price.

In past years United would have folded and paid it. Instead, Yoro and De Ligt have signed for £90 million combined, it’s smart business.

According to The Mail, Jarrad Branthwaite remains a ‘key target’ for Manchester United.

• READ: Who is Jarrad Branthwaite? Everything you need to know…

The report adds that Manchester United’s interest in Jarrad Branthwaite ‘could go to the wire’, meaning the transfer deadline.

United see £60 million as an upper limit for Branthwaite, unwilling to touch Everton’s valuation, and a deal would be reliant on the price dropping.

Branthwaite has already agreed personal terms with United, and he has told Everton that they must match United’s offer if they want him to sign a new deal.

• READ MORE: Manchester United confirmed signings, transfers in, out, loan exits, releases for 2024/25

Player sales must come first

The way to look at Manchester United’s defensive business is on a one-in and one-out basis.

Leny Yoro has replaced Raphael Varane, while Matthijs de Ligt has essentially replaced Victor Lindelof, who will now be sold.

For a move for Branthwaite to work, United would have to sell Harry Maguire. This could recoup around half of the fee.

United have sold a handful of players this summer but it has not been the mass clearout some expected, with high wages making it difficult to shift many.

Branthwaite remains a player United like, but a lot would have to happen between now and the transfer deadline to make a move financially viable, along with a little climbdown from Everton.