Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is attracting interest from Manchester United this summer, but the Toffees are set to offer him a new contract to convince him to stay at the club, according to Italian reporter Fabrizio Romano.
After an impressive breakthrough season with Everton, Branthwaite has been closely monitored by a host of top clubs. Manchester United are the side to have shown the most interest, seeing multiple bids rejected for the England international. The Toffees have stood firm on their valuation so far, and they are now hoping to offer Branthwaite improved terms.
Losing Branthwaite would be a heavy blow for Everton this summer. The young defender formed a strong partnership with James Tarkowski at the back, so it’s going to take a hefty offer to prise him away from Goodison Park.
According to Italian journalist Romano, Everton are set to offer improved terms to Branthwaite after rejecting two proposals for the defender. The Toffees are determined to keep hold of the Engish centre-back unless a huge bid arrives, with United unwilling to meet their £75-£80m valuation as it stands…
Reports have suggested that Manchester United have already agreed personal terms for Branthwaite, with a £160k-a-week contract on the table. The issue has been agreeing a fee with Everton, and their stance has been strengthened in recent weeks with multiple player sales.
Everton’s financial problems have been well-documented, but with Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana close to completing a move to Aston Villa for a fee of £50m, they are under less pressure to sell players during the summer transfer window. The Toffees might struggle to keep Branthwaite at Goodison Park for his whole career, but any interested party will have to meet their valuation.
As it stands, Branthwaite’s current Everton contract won’t expire until 2027, putting them in a strong negotiating position to reject any proposals that don’t match their valuation. As long as their financial situation is in a reasonable position, they won’t be forced into offloading any of their star players.
It’s understood that Branthwaite is currently earning around £35k-a-week at Goodison Park, so a new deal could see him receive a bumper pay rise considering the offer on the table from Manchester United.
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