Everton Reject £35m Bid from Man Utd for Branthwaite

Manchester United's initial bid of approximately £35 million for centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite has been rejected by Everton. The offer falls significantly short of Everton's valuation, which is believed to be around £80 million.

Everton are determined to keep the 21-year-old defender, who narrowly missed out on a spot in England's European Championship squad. The club considers Branthwaite a future England regular, comparing him to high-profile defenders such as Harry Maguire and Josko Gvardiol. Maguire joined United for £80 million in 2019, while Gvardiol moved to Manchester City for £77 million last summer.

Despite agreeing on personal terms with Branthwaite, United's bid does not meet Everton's expectations. Branthwaite has impressed with his performances as a left-sided central defender, playing a key role in helping Everton avoid relegation last season despite facing two points deductions for breaching financial loss rules.

In May, Everton's director of football, Kevin Thelwell, indicated that player sales would be necessary this summer to improve the club's financial situation. He urged fans to exercise "patience and understanding" during this period.

Everton has also received an inquiry from Arsenal regarding the availability of midfielder Amadou Onana. The 22-year-old Belgium international, who joined Everton from Lille for £33 million in 2022, is valued at more than £50 million by the club. Onana's potential move could be complicated by his participation in Euro 2024 with the Belgian national team.

With current profit and sustainability rules (PSR) and no Champions League football next season, Manchester United are open to offers for nearly all of their first-team squad to generate funds and strengthen Erik ten Hag's squad. United have placed a £40 million price tag on 24-year-old forward Jadon Sancho.

After completing a two-week performance review, United confirmed that Ten Hag would remain as manager. The club aims to bolster their central defense following the departure of Frenchman Raphael Varane after the FA Cup final. Last season, United faced a series of injuries to key defenders including Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, and Victor Lindelof. Veteran Northern Ireland international Jonny Evans also struggled with injuries, although the club is in talks with the 36-year-old over a new contract.