Everton are ready to put up a big fight to keep a hold of centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite for the next season, claim the Evening Standard.
The Toffees are aware that the 21-year-old defender is attracting interest from both Man United and Tottenham Hotspur. As a result, they have slapped an £80m asking price to scare away attention.
Ideally, Everton doesn’t want to accept any bid to sell Branthwaite next season. Yet their hand could be forced if a massive bid comes in.
Man United are reportedly prioritising the signing of a new centre-back in the summer. They have Branthwaite noted down as one of their main targets.
Raphael Varane is likely to leave after this campaign. So Man United are looking for a fitter and younger centre-back to play in their backline for years to come.
Branthwaite is enjoying a brilliant breakthrough season with Everton, having scored three goals in 33 Premier League appearances for them and helping them keep 11 clean sheets.
