Man United double Jarrad Branthwaite swap truth explained as Everton stance emerges

Manchester United's strong interest in Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite is expected to continue in the coming weeks. Reports have suggested that a second bid is being prepared after their first attempt was swiftly turned down.

The England international is one of United's priority signings this summer, with the club acting quick to sign him. An initial bid worth £43m was turned down by Everton but a new and improved offer is said to be imminent.

Sean Dyche's men value Branthwaite at £70m but United are yet to get close to that figure just yet. The Liverpool Echo have claimed a new offer is anticipated at Goodison Park, but any chances of a possible swap deal seems highly unlikely.

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Everton reporter for the Liverpool Echo, Chris Beesley, has claimed that United won't be able to offload defensive pair Victor Lindelof and Aaron Wan-Bissaka to Everton in their bid to sign Branthwaite.

Despite reports that the Toffees were exploring moves for the defenders, the ECHO understands that there is currently no interest. Lindelof and Wan-Bissaka are both reportedly in talks with Fenerbahce and Galatasaray, though no deal is done yet.

The report adds that Everton remain confident of keeping Branthwaite and are planning for him to be with them next season, unless United raise their offer. The 21-year-old only signed a new contract on Merseyside last autumn, which runs until 2027, but United do remain firmly interested.

Considering Man United paid £80m for Harry Maguire in 2019, Chelsea paid £75m for Wesley Fofana in 2022 and Josko Gvardiol joined Man City for £77m last year, Everton are confident that their breakthrough star is in the same bracket.