The 21-year-old star is giving the ‘green light’ to join Manchester United, according to Fabrizio Romano

Manchester United are not best pleased with Everton’s demands for Jarrad Branthwaite REUTERS/David Klein

Manchester United believe Everton are demanding “too much” money for defender Jarrad Branthwaite, despite the player’s desire to join the Old Trafford outfit.

The Red Devils need to bring in a first-choice centre-back this summer and have identified Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite as one of their top defensive targets.

According to reports, the Old Trafford hierarchy have already agreed personal terms with the Englishman’s camp. All that is pending now is agreeing a transfer fee with Everton – the most challenging aspect of this move. United have reportedly seen a previous £43m bid for the player rejected already.

Despite the setback, the Mancunian giants have made it clear they won’t be spending any “mad money” this summer, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano. But it seems they may have to do just that if they are to secure Branthwaite’s services.

Everton’s Branthwaite asking ‘too much’ for Manchester United: Fabrizio Romano

Fabrizio Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, suggested that Everton are reluctant to lower their demands for Branthwaite. This refusal to budge is despite the 21-year-old defender being tempted to make the move to the red side of Manchester.

Romano said: “Manchester United are continuing to work on a new centre-back. Branthwaite remains on the list, as we told you yesterday. Man United will only do that if there is no crazy money. But at the moment, Everton want £65-70m for Branthwaite.

“So it’s not an easy deal at all, even if Man United have the green light from the player. At the moment, Everton continue to ask, according to Man United, too much for the player.”

If both clubs fail to reach an agreement, INEOS may turn their attention elsewhere.

The club’s hierarchy have also lodged an interest in young Lille centre-back Leny Yoro, and he could well top Manchester United’s wish-list if Branthwaite’s move goes through.