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SportFootballEverton FCManchester United appear to be on the verge of a deal for another centre back after two rejected bids for Jarrad Branthwaite
11:06, 17 Jul 2024Updated 11:54, 17 Jul 2024
Lille centre-back Leny Yoro and Everton’s Jarrad BranthwaiteEverton’s efforts to keep hold of Jarrad Branthwaite have taken a further twist with Manchester United now on the verge of signing another centre back. The club’s efforts to lure the starlet from Goodison Park have largely been met with derision so far this summer. Two bids have been rejected, the first, for an initial £35m, dismissed out of hand with Blues chiefs viewing the offer as unacceptably low for one of Europe’s most promising defenders.
Despite frustration from the other end of the East Lancs, Everton held firm when the second offer – of £45m plus add-ons – followed a month later and the player rejoined the camp on the second day of pre-season last week. He is now in Ireland as the squad undergoes its summer fitness camp just outside Dublin.
As work to prepare for next season steps up in intensity, so too have Manchester United’s efforts to overhaul their defence following a catastrophic campaign last season that saw the club finish with a negative goal difference. Against that backdrop the club now appears to be on the cusp of a deal for Lille centre back Leny Yoro.
The teenager had long been viewed as a summer signing for Real Madrid but the Champions League winners have shown no inclination to meet the French club’s asking price and that, combined with the fear of losing him for free when his contract expires next season and Manchester United being willing to pay in the region of £52m, has led the Old Trafford side to poll position, according to the Athletic.
READ MORE: Everton insiders bemused by Man United new stadium visit claim after Jarrad Branthwaite bidsREAD MORE: Everton 2024/25 home kit review: Throwback chance missed – but solid design safe choice
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Should any deal cross the line it will not end intrigue around Branthwaite’s future – Manchester United retain an interest and other clubs are well aware of his talent too. But the latest developments will boost Everton’s hopes of retaining a key player ahead of a poignant final season at Goodison Park and will be seen as further vindication of careful work that has led the club to strengthen its position with regard to financial regulations – improving the ability to hold firm on transfer offers viewed as unreasonable.
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