Everton are ready to put up a big fight to keep a hold of centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite for the next season, claim the Evening Standard.
The Toffees are aware that the 21-year-old defender is attracting interest from both Man United and Tottenham Hotspur. As a result, they have slapped an £80m asking price to scare away attention.
Ideally, Everton doesn’t want to accept any bid to sell Branthwaite next season. Yet their hand could be forced if a massive bid comes in.
Man United are reportedly prioritising the signing of a new centre-back in the summer. They have Branthwaite noted down as one of their main targets.
Raphael Varane is likely to leave after this campaign. So Man United are looking for a fitter and younger centre-back to play in their backline for years to come.
Branthwaite is enjoying a brilliant breakthrough season with Everton, having scored three goals in 33 Premier League appearances for them and helping them keep 11 clean sheets.
How Man United could line up next season with Branthwaite & Olise