It feels like, if Everton are to pass PSR with ease this summer, one major sale must be sanctioned.
Fortunately, unlike other years, there are actually multiple players who could now be offloaded to potentially offset that fear though, meaning Jarrad Branthwaite’s exit is far from guaranteed.
That being said, the England international does remain their prized asset regardless, and has garnered huge interest from plenty of sides.
Manchester United want Branthwaite, but so too do Real Madrid according to some reports.
It has now been revealed how both clubs are approaching this transfer.
Manchester United’s Jarrad Branthwaite transfer stance
In this latest report by talkSPORT, they seek to outline Manchester United’s thoughts on the huge price tag that Everton are sticking with on their sensational young defender.
Despite a PSR deadline looming, they are unwilling to be bullied into a sale, and are well aware of the alternative interest outside of just Old Trafford.
In fact, it even notes within this piece how the Red Devils feel about a certain Real Madrid’s interest, as it reads: ‘Manchester United are reluctant to meet Everton’s asking price for Jarrad Branthwaite, talkSPORT understands.
‘Centre-back Branthwaite, who narrowly missed out on a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad, is one of Man United’s top summer transfer targets.
‘However, the Toffees’ valuation – in excess of £70million – is expected to prove an issue with new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe determined not to be forced into paying overly-inflated fees as Man United have in the past.
‘Ratcliffe also believes despite loose interest from Real Madrid that Man United are the only serious suitors for Branthwaite at this juncture and is wary of being drawn into effectively bidding against himself.’
Jarrad Branthwaite should stay at Everton
Although everyone is well aware that his ceiling is way above Everton’s current Premier League position, the 21-year-old defender, who has only enjoyed one full season at this level, would surely benefit from committing one more year to Sean Dyche’s cause.
After all, his stock is unlikely to plummet in the coming years, with his youth giving way to his immense physicality, his left-footedness and his intelligence.
Those traits will not evaporate, and arguably another year of progression alongside James Tarkowski and just ahead of Jordan Pickford would do his development no harm at all.
Last year in the English top flight, Branthwaite recorded an 80% pass accuracy alongside 1.4 interceptions, 4.5 clearances and 5.2 ball recoveries per game, via Sofascore.
Amongst the entire Everton squad, only Tarkowski recorded more interceptions and clearances, and only midfielders James Garner, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Amadou Onana were more consistently accurate with their passing of those who played regularly.
His importance is paramount, with his traits unlike anything the club has had for many years.
For both his development and the club’s steady progression, one more year would benefit both parties before then reassessing what clubs remain in the race for him.