Manchester United have agreed personal terms with Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite for a potential summer transfer.
United needs to settle on a transfer fee with Everton, who are asking for £70 million for the 21-year-old England international.
Branthwaite would be United’s first signing since Sir Jim Ratcliffe became a co-owner.
This deal would mark a significant signing for United after Sir Jim Ratcliffe made Branthwaite his No.1 choice for a new central defender.
Branthwaite has impressed at Everton, making 54 appearances since joining the first team.
Despite Branthwaite’s impressive season and a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s provisional Euro 2024 squad, he missed the final team.
United’s new technical director, Jason Wilcox, likely facilitated the personal terms agreement due to his close ties with Branthwaite’s agent, David Reeves.
While personal terms have been agreed, the transfer fee with Everton is still pending.
The agreement comes just after it was confirmed that manager Erik ten Hag will stay on.
Branthwaite’s deal would reportedly see him earning between £150,000 and £160,000 per week.
United faced numerous injuries to their centre-backs during the 2023/24 season, which led to midfielder Casemiro playing in defense, drawing criticism.
With Raphael Varane already gone and Jonny Evans’ future uncertain, United aims to strengthen their defense with Branthwaite.
Everton is experiencing financial difficulties and may need to sell more players this summer despite avoiding relegation under Sean Dyche.
Everton demands £70 million, but if an ongoing takeover at the club is completed, they may not allow Branthwaite to leave.
KanyiDaily recalls that Manchester United recently defeated Manchester City 2-1 to win the 2024 FA Cup.