Man Utd and Sir Jim Ratcliffe refuse to be held to ransom over Branthwaite deal
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has told Everton that Manchester United will not be held to ransom over Jarrad Branthwaite.
United bosses have made the rising star one of their main targets in this summer’s transfer window. The 21-year-old has established himself as one of the best young defenders in the Premier League, and has been included in Gareth Southgate’s initial England squad ahead of the Euros.
But United appear to be on a collision course with Everton over Branthwaite’s valuation, which could lead to Ratcliffe’s first big deal since investing in United collapsing.
READ MORE: Man Utd ‘could face relegation from Europa League’ despite FA Cup heroics
READ MORE: ‘Man Utd could lose £15m a season thanks to state of Old Trafford and its leaky roof’
Join the Daily Star’s WhatsApp for the sexiest headlines, showbiz gossip and lots more
The Daily Star is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join us!
Through the app, we’ll send you the sassiest showbiz stories, some naught headline and a seismic smattering of aliens…along with the latest breaking news of course.
To join our community, all you have to do to join is click on this link, select ‘Join Chat’ and you’re in!
No one will be able to see who has sign up and no one can send messages except for the Daily Star team. We also treat our community members to competitions, special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Everton will demand around £80m for Branthwaite, while United value him closer to the £60m mark. Ratcliffe has completed a review of United’s recent transfer activity since taking charge of football operations in January.
The billionaire believes United have grossly overpaid on several occasions – and is determined not to fall into the same trap when it comes to Branthwaite.
What do you think about Manchester United’s pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite? Let us know in the comments section
(Image: Getty Images)
He knows cash-strapped Everton are desperate to raise funds this summer, and fears the Merseysiders will look to exploit United’s wealth. But Ratcliffe is not prepared to pay over the odds, and will look elsewhere if no deal can be struck with Everton.
United want to bring in a top class replacement for Raphael Varane, who left the club following last weekend’s FA Cup final win over Manchester City. While there are also doubts about the long-term futures of defenders Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof.
Alternative targets include England and Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi, Juventus defender Gleison Bremer and Chelsea ace Levi Colwill. Branthwaite, who is under contract with Everton until 2027, was recently voted his club’s Players’ Player and Supporters’ Young Player of the Season.
