Manchester United opening bid for Branthwaite rejected as Everton demand £80 million

Branthwaite's performance last season has drawn interest from top teams in the Premier League, including Man United.

The Red Devils have been monitoring the England international and have made a move for his signature.

Despite Everton's insistence that the 21-year-old is not for sale, the team may accept a huge offer for their star player.

According to Daily Mail, Erik Ten Hag's side has made an offer of around £45 million for Everton and England centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite.

United are in the process of signing the left-sided defender, even though their bid is probably going to be turned down.

The defender is being pursued by United as their first summer signing, but they have to be careful with Financial Fair Play regulations.

According to BBC, Everton are requesting a fee of £80 million for the defender, which is far more than Manchester United's initial offer.

Branthwaite had a successful season for Sean Dyche's team, earning him a call-up to the England team for Gareth Southgate's provisional Euro 2024 roster. 

The Red Devils will need to let some players leave, with the likes of Jadon Sancho and Mason Greenwood a possible departure this summer. Man United will need to recuperate from their outgoing transfers to fund some of their incomings this summer.

Branthwaite signed new terms last year until 2027, so the Toffees are in a solid negotiating position.