Liverpool are poised to outmanoeuvre Manchester United by making a move for Jarrad Branthwaite in January.
The 22 year old Everton centre-back was the focus of intense transfer speculation over the summer, but Everton held their ground when United failed to meet their asking price.
Despite United’s subsequent signings of Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt, they remain keen on Branthwaite, having had a £50million bid turned down by Everton in the last transfer window.
Man Utd signed Matthijs de Ligt in summer though the Dutchman is yet to fully impress (Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)
However, United’s interest could be overshadowed by that of Everton’s local rivals, with Liverpool potentially looking to unsettle their neighbours by making a New Year move for the young player.
According to The Mail, Liverpool are eager to bring Branthwaite to Anfield and plan to act in the winter transfer window, while United are more likely to pursue a forward.
With United unlikely to compete with Liverpool for Branthwaite until summer 2025, this could open the door for the Reds to negotiate a deal for the £70million-rated defender.
Everton are anticipated to rebuff any offers for their star player, but if reports suggesting Branthwaite is reluctant to sign a new contract are true, they may choose to capitalise on his high market value – provided their conditions are met.
Manchester United’s Dutch manager Erik ten Hag reacts after the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Sheffield United at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on April 24, 2024. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images) (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Despite the looming takeover at Goodison Park, Branthwaite is unlikely to sign an extension, with his current deal expiring in June 2027.
Everton are understood to be unable to match the £160,000 a week that United and Liverpool would be prepared to pay him.
Fresh from overcoming a groin injury, Branthwaite celebrated his seasonal debut on Saturday by helping Everton clinch their inaugural victory of the campaign, beating Crystal Palace 2-1.
Everton boss Sean Dyche is determined to shield Branthwaite from any additional pressure. Speaking after the match, he insisted: “There will be no extra scrutiny from us, that’s for sure. It will be the same message, go and mature as a player by enjoying the challenges.”
Dyche commended his comeback, adding, “The first thing is to get him fully fit. He has done well to get to where he was here, delivering a good performance.”
Acknowledging Branthwaite’s potential amidst limited Premier League experience, Dyche added: “He is still a young player in terms of Premier League games. He’s a very talented player.”
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1956067/liverpool-man-utd-shock-transfer-Jarrad-Branthwaite