Jarrad Branthwaite is one of the leading names on Manchester United’s shortlist (Getty)
Manchester United’s hierarchy are expecting to complete a deal for Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite by the end of June, according to reports.
United are in the market for at least one new central defender following Raphael Varane’s departure and Branthwaite is on the club’s shortlist after an impressive season in the Premier League.
Everton, meanwhile, were deducted eight points this season after two separate breaches of the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR) and it’s understood that the club remain under pressure to ease their finances before the June 30 deadline which marks the end of the financial year for top-flight teams.
According to the Liverpool Echo, United believe they can capitalise on Everton’s situation this month but the Toffees are refusing to let the 21-year-old leave for a cut-price fee and are holding out for a figure in the region of £75 million.
The report claims that Everton are still planning to keep Branthwaite at Goodison Park but now remain open to a quicker move from United after the defender was dropped from England’s final Euro 2024 squad this week.
United are also cautious about their spending this summer due to the Premier League’s PSR rules, with Erik ten Hag admitting that he was denied a new striker in the January transfer window due to the club’s financial situation.
Jonny Evans is keen to extend his second stint at Manchester United (PA)
Meanwhile, Jonny Evans has indicated that he is open to extending his stay at United.
After joining as a surprise free transfer last summer, the 36-year-old ended up making 30 appearances in all competitions for United this season due to several injuries to Erik ten Hag’s squad.
‘I’ve always had that determination, I knew that when I’d get in this season that I would make the most of it and that the club would value me,’ Evans told BBC Sport Northern Ireland.
‘I think I had the belief I would be able to do that, I think I did do that and I back myself to play well and stil feel I’ve got a bit to offer.’
Asked if he is confident about staying at United, Evans replied: ‘Yeah, if they want me to stay it won’t be a difficult deal to make.’
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