Manchester United have suffered a significant setback in their pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, after the English star has signed a new contract that makes a move to Old Trafford impossible.
Branthwaite extends with Everton
Branthwaite (23) is considered one of the most promising centre-backs in the Premier League and has been a key player for Everton in recent years. He already has one cap for England and was named both Everton Players’ Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season in 2023/24.
United had a bid of £50 million rejected this summer, with Everton stuck at a price of at least £70 million. Tottenham and Chelsea were also interested, but any possibility of a transfer is now gone after Branthwaite signed a new five-year contract until 2030.
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Branthwaite’s joy of new deal
After the signing, he told Everton’s website:
“I’m overjoyed. The club has shown great confidence in me, and I look forward to continuing my development here. With the new stadium, new ownership and a new manager, this is an exciting project I really want to be a part of.”
He added:
“Manager David Moyes has been incredibly important – not just for me, but for the whole team. You saw how the results and the mood changed when he arrived. He pushes us to be better every day.”
David Moyes’ situation
Moyes will be happy to keep Branthwaite, but at the same time received bad news regarding another goal:
- Kenny Tete chose to extend his contract with Fulham instead of joining Everton.
- However, Everton are now in the process of completing a transfer for Villarreal striker Thierno Barry for a starting fee of €32 million (£27.5 million). With bonuses, the total can approach his release clause of €40 million.
Manchester United’s other options
United must now look elsewhere to strengthen the team:
- According to Spanish sources, the club is ready to pay £43 million for a Champions League winner, but may have trouble convincing him.
- They are also competing with Fulham for a midfielder who himself believes he is the best in the world.
- Former United player Louis Saha has recommended the club to sign a specific striker, while also giving his assessment of Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
Branthwaite’s contract extension marks the end of United’s hopes for one of their greatest summer goalkeepers. With Everton on the rise and United looking for alternatives, the transfer window will be more exciting than ever.
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