United now on red-alert as ‘magnificent’ Premier League target could be sold as early as January

Manchester United retain their longstanding interest in Jarrad Branthwaite after having two bids rejected by Everton in the summer.

Indeed, the Red Devils’ proposals – an initial £35 million (plus £10m in add-ons) followed by £45m (plus £10m in add-ons) – were laughed off by Everton’s board in the last transfer window.

After United eventually accepted that a move for Branthwaite was unsustainable, they pursued alternatives, ultimately deciding on 18-year-old Leny Yoro and European-proven Matthijs de Ligt to bolter the centre of defence.

Even at the time of their rejected offers, it was reported that the Reds would return for Branthwaite at some stage in the future. He is viewed as a long-term candidate to anchor the backline for years to come, and his career has only gone from strength to strength since he became a mainstay in Everton’s starting XI.

INEOS on red-alert following Branthwaite’s tumultuous start to season

That’s why his situation at Goodison Park this season has raised the eyebrows of his potential suitors. Branthwaite endured a delayed start to 2024/2025 due to his recovery from a groin injury, yet upon his return to the fold, he has made only one league start, which coincided with the Toffees’ first win of the season in a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace in late September.

The 22-year-old was absent entirely for matches against Newcastle United and Ipswich Town and proceeded to feature for a total of six minutes off the bench in the subsequent clashes with Fulham and Southampton. 

According to a fresh report from the Daily Mail today, INEOS are now considering trying their luck for Branthwaite, whom Alan Shearer previously hailed as ‘magnificent’, in the winter window.

Everton’s precarious financial woes mean they are unable to offer the player a new contract, with his current deal set to expire in 2027. Unwilling to lose him for nothing, they may grow resigned to selling him earlier than expected to ensure they benefit from his potential departure.