Manchester United have made a second bid to sign Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, according to the Daily Mail.
The Red Devils initially expressed an interest in signing Branthwaite last month. Their opening offer worth £38 million plus £7m in add-ons was rejected.
United have now returned with a fresh proposal of £45m plus £5m in add-ons for Branthwaite as they prepare to receive a huge financial boost from Mason Greenwood’s exit.
Greenwood is reportedly on the verge of joining Marseille for £27m. As part of the deal, the Red Devils have finalised a massive sell-on clause in the region of 40-50 percent.
Everton continue to hold out for £70m to part ways with Branthwaite and are expected to turn down United’s latest proposal.
United could make another proposal after Greenwood’s exit
United are operating with a limited pre-sales budget this summer and are looking to be cautious with their spending. However, this could change in the coming days.
Greenwood’s permanent move to Les Phoceens should provide them with more financial freedom. There is also speculation that Jadon Sancho could move to Juventus soon.
The Red Devils could make a third proposal for Branthwaite, but it will likely fall short of the asking price.
A package of £55m including add-ons appears quite reasonable for the 21-year-old, who has already agreed a long-term contract worth £150,000 per week with United.
United’s interest in Branthwaite could be independent of their pursuit of Matthijs de Ligt.
The club are close to agreeing personal terms with the Dutchman and talks are also underway with Bayern Munich over the transfer fee. A deal could be sorted pretty soon.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
