Manchester United 'told to pay £80m for leading centre-back target'

Manchester United have reportedly been informed that they will have to come up with an offer of £80m in order to sign Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite during this summer's transfer window.

The 21-year-old, who has been named in England's preliminary squad for Euro 2024, enjoyed an impressive 2023-24 campaign for his Merseyside club.

Branthwaite made 41 appearances in all competitions for Sean Dyche's side, including 35 outings in the Premier League, and he helped the Toffees win five of their final eight league games of the season.

There is currently a host of speculation surrounding the Englishman's future, with a number of clubs believed to be admirers of the defender.

Newcastle United and Real Madrid continue to be linked with Branthwaite, but the strongest interest is believed to be coming from Man United, who could sign two new centre-backs this summer.

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Man United 'must pay £80m to sign Branthwaite'

A recent report claimed that Man United would be willing to pay £55m for the defender, but according to inews, Everton have placed a valuation of £80m on his shoulders.

The report claims that Everton, despite their financial problems, are not prepared to let Branthwaite leave Goodison Park this summer for a cut-price fee.

Newcastle are believed to be the favourites to sign Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer from Fulham, which has seen their interest in Branthwaite cool, while Real Madrid are unlikely to submit a bid this summer.

As a result, Man United could have a relatively clear run at the Englishman, although it is unlikely that the 20-time English champions would be willing to pay £80m for his services.

Everton allegedly believe that it is fair to price the defender in the same region as Harry Maguire when he left Leicester City to make the move to Old Trafford in 2019.

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What is the centre-back situation at Man United?

Raphael Varane's departure from Man United on a free transfer this summer has already been confirmed, with the Frenchman set to make his final appearance for the club in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester City.

Jonny Evans is also out of contract on June 30, and it seems likely that the Northern Ireland international will move on this summer.

The club are believed to be willing to listen to offers for Victor Lindelof, meanwhile, so it is possible that two centre-backs this summer could arrive to challenge Maguire and Lisandro Martinez for spots next term.

Willy Kambwala has also been in and around the first team this season, and the 19-year-old is set to remain at Old Trafford.

Branthwaite has huge admirers at Old Trafford, and the defender has had an eye-catching season, but a move to Man United this summer is unlikely unless Everton are willing to do business for under £80m.