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Rob Dawson, Correspondent
Jarrad Branthwaite is a summer transfer target for Manchester United but Everton‘s asking price may be a stumbling block, a source has told ESPN.
United are looking to add at least one centre-back to their squad during the summer window.
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Branthwaite has been tracked by United scouts since making his professional debut as a teenager for Carlisle United and has particularly impressed for Everton this season.
His performances at Goodison Park have earned him a place in England‘s provisional squad ahead of the European Championship in Germany.
There are concerns that, having become a key part of Sean Dyche’s team, Everton could demand as much as £75 million ($95m) for Branthwaite.
The 21-year-old signed a contract extension in October which could keep him at the club until 2027.
United have described their finances as “tight” but there is money to spend and the budget has been boosted by the departure of a number of high earners over the last two years.
Paul Pogba, Cristiano Ronaldo and David De Gea have all departed while Raphaël Varane and Anthony Martial will officially leave when their contracts expire on June 30. Casemiro, United’s second-highest earner, could also leave this summer if clubs in Saudi Arabia firm up their interest.
United would ideally like a right-sided centre-back to replace Varane and a left-sided centre-back to act as cover for Lisandro Martínez.
But there is a possibility that Everton’s asking price for Branthwaite, who is left-footed, could convince the recruitment team to focus on signing a right-footed player instead.
United have shown interest in Tosin Adarabioyo, who is available on a free transfer from Fulham, but Newcastle are leading the race for his signature. There is also interest in 18-year-old France youth international Leny Yoro, who is entering the last year of his contract at Lille.
United are hoping to strengthen a number of positions over the summer.
As well as a centre-back, there are plans in place to sign a midfielder and a striker. Work has also been done to identify wingers who might be available but sources have told ESPN the position is lower down the list of priorities.