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2 weeks ago
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Manchester United’s transfer chiefs have resorted back to the drawing board to decipher how they can prise Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton in their third attempt.
Long have INEOS been admirers of the sought-after centre-half since their arrival at Old Trafford in February. They first tried their luck on the opening day of the summer transfer window when sending a £35 million (plus £10m in add-ons) bid Everton’s way. When this was swiftly rejected by the Toffees board, an improved offer of £45m plus £10m in add-ons was submitted, and again, it was laughed off.
It hasn’t deterred them from returning, though, as talkSPORT has today claimed that United hope to sanction Branthwaite’s arrival ahead of the 2025/2026 campaign. He is viewed as an ideal candidate to slot into Ruben Amorim’s back-three system and is said to have ‘ambitions’ of playing for one of the Premier League’s top dogs.
Hailed as ‘magnificent’ by Newcastle United and England legend Alan Shearer, Branthwaite has previously attracted interest from both Liverpool and Real Madrid – the latter of which may go all-out for his signature as a way to make up for their failed pursuit of Leny Yoro.
Branthwaite’s recent omission sees Sean Dyche come under fire
(Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)The 22-year-old, who earned his first senior England cap in June, endured a delayed start to the term due to a groin injury. He was ruled out of Everton’s opening five matches of the Premier League season and, upon his return to the starting 11, played the full 90 minutes as the Blues claimed their first win against Crystal Palace.
However, he was then absent from the matchday squads for fixtures against Newcastle United and Ipswich Town before making two off-the-bench cameos in the draw to Fulham and the 1-0 loss to Southampton. Sean Dyche was berated by fans and pundits for his decision to leave Branthwaite on the bench for the majority of both games, given that he has been Everton’s standout performer since he established himself as a starter.
