Manchester United appear free to make an early approach for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
The 21-year-old was included in Gareth Southgate’s 33-man provisional European championships squad, however he failed to make the final cut with United’s Harry Maguire, because of an ongoing calf injury, also among those to miss out.
“I think it’s a bit early for Jarrad,” Southgate admitted when asked about the omission of Branthwaite. “He’s had a fabulous season and it was good to get him on the pitch on Monday. Of course, ideally we’d have had a left-footed centre-back but I don’t think it would have been the right call.”
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With Maguire left out, the expectation was that Branthwaite would be included however both he and Liverpool youngster Jarell Quansah have not been named. While Branthwaite has left camp entirely, Quansah has remained as cover with Southgate keen for the 21-year-old to experience a Wembley matchday which certainly could be considered a surprise given Branthwaite’s superior season.
While Branthwaite will understandably be disappointed he will not travel to Germany this summer, it arrives as a potentially huge transfer boost for United. The England manager had already revealed no transfer talks would take place during the tournament and as such negotiations can take place four weeks sooner than previously thought.
United have tracked the defender and the Manchester Evening News confirmed last Wednesday that Everton value him between £70million and £80m. Last October, Branthwaite signed a new contract at Goodison Park but the Merseyside club could be forced to sell because of FFP issues.
Alongside signing a new centre-back, United are expected to add a midfielder and striker to their ranks this summer. The future of Erik ten Hag must also be decided over the coming weeks with the club yet to make a final decision following the surprise FA Cup triumph over Manchester City.
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