Manchester United asked to pay £70m to sign PL defender this summer - Reports

Manchester United have reportedly been asked to cough up £70 million in order to complete the signing of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer.

According to The Telegraph, this valuation is much higher than what the Red Devils are willing to pay. It is believed that the Manchester outfit are hoping that a compromise can be struck between the two parties regarding the transfer amount.

Erik ten Hag's team are in search of a new centre-back after Raphael Varane left the club this summer. Moreover, issues with Harry Maguire on the fitness front have increased the need for a new central defender.

Branthwaite is considered one of the top talents coming out of England currently. The 21-year-old made 41 appearances across competitions this season, bagging three goals.

A move to Old Trafford would be a step in the right direction, although the club haven't performed as per expectations this season. They finished eighth in the English top flight and were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League in the group stage.

Despite that, Manchester United are considered one of the biggest clubs in the world and will be looking to bounce back next season. Should the Branthwaite deal fail to materialise, the Red Devils are also said to be looking at Lille's Leny Yoro.

However, with competition from the likes of Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, it is unlikely that Manchester United will sign the teenager. The aforementioned report states that the Santiago Bernabeu is the player's most likely destination.

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Manchester United agree terms with Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite - Reports

Jarrad Branthwaite

Despite the hurdle of the transfer fee in Jarrad Branthwaite's case, Manchester United have seemingly agreed terms with the defender. As per a report from The Times, it is believed that the Red Devils are willing to pay the defender a salary of between £150,000 and £160,000 per week (via Mirror).

However, the most tedious part of the deal, which is an agreement on the transfer fee, is yet to be made. As per the report, the Toffees want to keep their young defender and would only be willing to sell if a magnanimous offer came their way.

Branthwaite is contracted at Goodison Park till the summer of 2027. With Everton needing to get their finances in place before June 30 to meet the requirements of the Premier League's PSR rules, they may consider letting him go.