Manchester United have just decided the maximum amount they are willing to pay for one of their summer transfer targets.
The Red Devils have had a really underwhelming season. They managed to win just 17 of their 37 games in the Premier League and are likely to finish eighth.
That is simply not good enough, and it is clear that they need reinforcements in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Manchester United make final decision on Jarrad Branthwaite
Manchester United have been heavily linked with a move to sign Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton.
The 21-year-old has had an amazing season at Goodison Park. He has arguably been their best player and is almost guaranteed to be a wanted man this summer.
Manchester United need additions at the back.
Raphael Varane has announced he will be leaving the club, while there’s a chance Harry Maguire will be shown the door as well.
A new centre-back has to be the priority for the Red Devils, and Branthwaite would be a fantastic option for them this summer.
However, GiveMeSport claim that Everton are hoping to get £80 million for their star defender, but Manchester United have no plans of meeting that figure.
The report claims that Sir Jim Ratcliffe‘s side have decided that the maximum they will pay for Branthwaite this summer is £55 million, but they would ideally want to wrap up the deal for £50 million.
Branthwaite, who has played 40 games in all competitions for Everton this season, will have three years left on his contract this summer.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag plots swap deal to sign Jarrad Branthwaite for Manchester United
Jarrad Braithwaite’s defensive stats compared to Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane
Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite has been one of the most impressive young defenders in the Premier League this season.
Jamie Carragher went as far as calling him a ‘superstar’ on Sky Sports Monday Night Football (26th February 2024).
The 21-year-old averages 1.9 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 4.4 clearances per game. He also averages 5.3 ball recoveries every 90 minutes and hasn’t made a single error leading to a goal all season. (SofaScore)
Harry Maguire, on the other hand, averages 1.1 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 3.8 clearances per game, while making just 3.5 ball recoveries. (SofaScore)
Raphael Varane, who is a World Cup winner, averages 0.7 interceptions, 0.9 tackles and 4.1 clearances per 90 minutes. He has managed more ball recoveries than Maguire (4.1) but is still no match for Branthwaite. (SofaScore)
Manchester United are right to target Branthwaite and the fact that he’s still only 21 means he will get much better in the coming years.
However, whether Everton would be willing to let him go for a fee under £55 million remains to be seen.