Everton has rejected Manchester United’s offer to purchase Jarrad Branthwaite at a discounted price.
Everton Football Club is standing firm in their decision to keep Jarrad Branthwaite, despite the collapse of the proposed takeover by the Friedkin Group. The club has managed to ease their financial concerns through other sales, and it has been reported by The Athletic that Manchester United is not interested in Branthwaite at the current valuation.
According to the website, Everton has informed Manchester United that they have no intention of allowing Branthwaite to leave this summer, regardless of the failed takeover. The collapse of the deal has put Everton in a precarious financial situation, leading to speculation that Branthwaite may need to be sold. However, Everton maintains that they will only consider his departure if their valuation is met. They believe that the transfer fees commanded for defenders like Harry Maguire, Wesley Fofana, and Josko Gvardiol in recent years set the benchmark.
Meanwhile, Manchester United continues their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte. PSG is demanding around £59 million for the 23-year-old, which may require United to sell players in order to raise the necessary funds. United has already made two signings this summer, bringing in striker Joshua Zirkzee and defender Leny Yoro. Now, they are looking to add a midfielder to their squad. PSG signed Ugarte from Sporting Lisbon last year for £51.1 million and is keen to recoup their investment.
Napoli, managed by former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, is hoping to secure the services of Billy Gilmour from Brighton. The Scottish midfielder, who has two years left on his contract, is a top target for Napoli. Conte previously worked with Gilmour at Chelsea, where the 23-year-old made his breakthrough before moving to Brighton two years ago. Napoli is expected to formalize their interest in Gilmour in the coming week.
In other transfer news, Arsenal is close to completing a deal for Ajax goalkeeper Tommy Seftord. The 18-year-old England under-20 international is out of contract next year, prompting Ajax to sell him now. Arsenal has agreed to a fee of around €1 million for Setford, who is set to join the club’s goalkeeping department. Ajax had hoped to keep Setford, but he was unwilling to sign a new contract.
In conclusion, the transfer market continues to heat up as clubs make moves to strengthen their squads ahead of the new season. Everton is determined to hold onto Branthwaite, while Manchester United pursues Ugarte. Napoli is keen on Gilmour, and Arsenal is close to securing Setford. Exciting times lie ahead for football fans as the summer transfer window progresses.