Manchester United’s hopes of landing their top defensive transfer target have received a significant boost if Football Insider’s Peter O’Rourke is to be believed.
According to the reporter, Everton have set an asking price for their gangling young centre back, Jarrad Branthwaite, and it is significantly less than the figure that had been touted around previously.
Furthermore, O’Rourke says the Toffees will be prepared to accept a big discount on that figure to get the transfer over the line by June 30th.
The 21 year old has been one of the breakout stars of the Premier League this season, earning himself an England call-up and establishing himself as one of the hottest prospects on the transfer market.
United’s interest has been widely reported, but reported price tags ranging between £75 to £100 million had left a big question mark over his affordability, with Chelsea seeming more likely to be willing to stump up the huge sum demanded.
However, Everton’s precarious financial situation – which could be even worse if they get relegated – means that time is of the essence for them.
“Everton have put a £70million price tag on defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer but could now be forced to sell him for less,” the reporter states.
“The club recently revealed £89.1million of losses on their accounts for last season following their six-point deduction and amid another pending charge for profit and sustainability breaches.
“If they want to balance their books for this season, they need to sanction player sales by 30 June – the date clubs must file their financial accounts.
“This could force them to sell Branthwaite below their £70 million valuation in what would be an unexpected and demoralising twist.”
Needing to get a deal done by June 30th would significantly weaken Everton’s hand in negotiations, but unless United get a clear run at the young star, it could induce a very swift and energetic auction that could still reach the £70 million plus figure.
O’Rourke does not mention Chelsea in his report, but does confirm that Real Madrid, Newcastle and Man City are also in the mix.
Spurs have also been linked with the 6ft 5in powerhouse.
Even with the price reduction, it does not sound like an easy one for United. However, the good news is that even if they were to miss out, a cut-off of June would at least leave them the rest of the summer to find an alternative and fans would be spared the usual agonising summer of long, drawn-out transfer sagas to which they have become accustomed.
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