Everton identifies ‘like-for-like’ Jarrad Branthwaite replacement as Manchester United pursues deal

Manchester United continue to pursue England defender Jarrad Branthwaite, and Everton may have found a substitute.

Erik ten Hag’s future has been decided, and Manchester United will now focus on the summer transfer market.

Ineos will be aiming to make significant additions to the United squad, but will need to be covered due to budget constraints at Old Trafford.

There are several areas that require addressing this summer, but center back is a top priority for United.

Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire have recently suffered injuries, and Raphael Varane is set to leave the club this summer.

Jose Mourinho wants to take Victor Lindelof to Fenerbahce, so acquiring another center back or two must be a priority for United this summer.

Everton identify Jarrad Branthwaite successor.
Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton appears to be United’s main centre-back target.

Branthwaite, who is young, English, tall, and left-footed, fits a lot of United’s needs this summer.

According to reports, United made an initial proposal for Branthwaite worth around £45 million, including all add-ons.

That is nowhere near Everton’s £70 million asking price, so Ineos will have to dig deep if Branthwaite joins United this summer.

Everton may need to raise finances before June 30th, and with Branthwaite likely leaving, they are looking for a successor.

According to The Mirror (23/06, p73), Everton are ‘weighing up a bid’ to capture Lyon defender Jake O’Brien this summer.

It is reported that Irishman O’Brien is being seen as a ‘cheap replacement’ for Branthwaite, with a move to Old Trafford ‘anticipated’.

O’Brien joined Lyon from Crystal Palace for £1 million last summer, but Everton is now considering a £15 million transfer.

Everton reportedly sees O’Brien as a ‘like-for-like’ replacement for Branthwaite, given his massive stature of 6ft 6in tall.

O’Brien isn’t left-footed like Branthwaite, but his athletic qualities appear to have piqued the interest of Sean Dyche and the Toffees.