Man Utd handed boost in Jarrad Branthwaite transfer saga twist - report | OneFootball

Manchester United target Jarrad Branthwaite is reported to have no intention of signing a new contract at Everton, except on one condition.

Branthwaite has emerged as one of the Premier League's top defensive talents after a breakout season with the Toffees in 2023/24 almost earned him a place with England at Euro 2024.

United, who have been keen to strengthen their defensive ranks, made two bids that were rejected before wrapping up a £52m deal for French teenage prodigy Leny Yoro. But it has long been thought that bringing in two new centre-backs this summer is a possibility for the club.

Everton have been holding out for a premium price for Branthwaite – in excess of £70m – and one way to secure his market value in the long-term would be to agree a new contract. However, according to the Daily Mail, the 22-year-old, doesn't plan to sign fresh terms unless Everton can match the salary on offer at Old Trafford. That is reported to be £160,000 per week.

Branthwaite has been offered far more money at Man Utd / Jan Kruger/GettyImages

As it stands, Branthwaite is thought to earn just under half of that at Goodison Park, around £70,000. The Carlisle-born defender signed his current deal in October and it runs until 2027.

If he is refusing to sign a new contract, except on specific terms, it may eventually force Everton's hand to sell for less than they want to should free agency become more of a risk and threat. But, for now, United are reported to have "stepped back" from transfer talks.

Matthijs de Ligt continues to be another option at centre-back, with an agreement seemingly reached with the player's camp over personal terms but not with Bayern Munich on a fee. The Dutchman famously thrived as a teenager under Erik ten Hag at first club Ajax and has struggled to find long-term success since those days in Amsterdam, having also played for Juventus.