Manchester United ‘expect’ to make huge signings in weeks as Sir Jim Ratcliffe closes in on £75m star

Manchester United are trying to sign Jarrad Branthwaite within weeks, a new report has claimed.

The Liverpool Echo claimed that Everton face a battle to keep hold of Branthwaite after the defender was left out of the European Championship squad on Thursday, with United trying to complete a move for the player before the end of the month.

United bosses expect to complete a deal for the centre-back before June 30, with Everton holding out for around £75m.

The Football Association has blocked clubs, agents and players from contacting them about moves while players are away on international duty.

Indeed, if Branthwaite had been selected for England then there would have been problems in United’s chances of completing a deal quickly.

The Echo added that the 21-year-old, who made his international debut against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Monday, has a minor groin injury and could require surgery.

Everton have reportedly insisted they will not be bullied into selling Branthwaite on the cheap, with claims of a “fire sale” at Goodison Park this summer all over the brand.

With United paying £80m for Harry Maguire in 2019, Chelsea paying £75m for Wesley Fofana in 2022 and Manchester City paying £77m for Josko Gvardiol, it says that the Blues are considering the asking price for the fair defender.

It has been claimed that Branthwaite, whose current contract with Everton runs until 2027, will only be sold if the asking price is met.

Branthwaite won his first England cap earlier this week (Getty)

However, Everton are among several Premier League clubs who have needed to sell high-value stars before the end of this month to avoid falling foul of PSR rules again. The club has been given two separate points deductions for such offenses this season.

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Featured image credit: Getty

Topics: Manchester United, Everton, Transfer News, Premier League, England, Wayne Rooney, Harry Maguire