Nachrichten
Newcastle United were linked with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite earlier this year
Everton have no plans to sell Jarrad Branthwaite this summer after rejecting two approaches from Manchester United.
The Red Devils identified the England international - who missed out on the Euro 2024 squad - as the man for their defensive rebuild. Raphael Varane left on a free transfer following three injury-ravaged years at Old Trafford.
Newcastle United had been linked earlier this year but Everton’s steep price tag repelled interest. Eddie Howe remains interested in a centre-back given the long-term injuries to Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles.
Fabian Schar and Dan Burn are also on the wrong side of 30, with the Magpies keen to think towards the future. Newcastle previously took advantage of Everton’s dismal financial situation by signing Anthony Gordon for £40million.
While the Toffees’ economic situation has improved, the club remains embroiled in uncertainty after their proposed takeover by the Friedkin Group broke down. But The Athletic claim Branthwaite - who is Gordon’s best friend - will not be sold.
Read More
That is unless any potential suitor stumped up a staggering £70million - twice as much as Man United’s initial offer. The Magpies are understood to be keen on a right-sided centre-back to partner Botman for the long term.
Branthwaite plays in Botman’s position, with Lloyd Kelly and Burn also providing cover. Transfer talks between Toon officials, including new sporting director Paul Mitchell, ramped up last week during the pre-season trip to Germany.
Newcastle are yet to make any major moves in the summer window. Kelly and Odysseas Vlachodimos arrived for free transfers while Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson left for a combined £68million.