Everton’s promising young defender, Jarrad Branthwaite, has refused to sign a new contract amid interest from Manchester United.
The 22-year-old, who had an outstanding season in the Premier League, has seen United submit two bids for him. The first bid was £35 million with £10 million in add-ons, followed by a second offer of £45 million plus £5 million in add-ons, both of which Everton swiftly rejected. Everton values Branthwaite at £70 million.
Branthwaite has agreed to personal terms with Manchester United, including a proposed salary of £160,000 per week, significantly higher than his current £70,000 per week at Everton. Despite Everton’s eagerness to secure Branthwaite with a new contract, the young defender is holding out for a deal matching United’s offer.
Although Manchester United remains interested in Branthwaite, the club has temporarily paused transfer talks. United recently signed Leno Yoro from Lille for £52 million and continues to explore options to strengthen their defense. They are in discussions with Bayern Munich for Matthijs de Ligt and are also looking for a full-back to address fitness concerns with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia’s ongoing recovery.
Everton faces a challenging situation, with Branthwaite’s resistance to a new deal unless their offer matches United’s, posing a potential obstacle to retaining their rising star.
