Manchester United believe a bid in the region of £50m could be enough to land Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, according to The Sun.
The English tabloid report that the Red Devils are likely to revive their interest in the 22-year-old following some devastating news about Leny Yoro.
The Frenchman broke a metatarsal in his left foot during a friendly against Arsenal last month and it was initially expected that he would be sidelined for two to three months.
However, The Sun claim that there is now a possibility that Yoro will be out until January, almost doubling the period of time he could spend on the treatment table.
United have already had bids rejected for Branthwaite
Erik ten Hag’s side have made proposals worth £42m and £50m (including add-ons) to sign the centre-back but both offers were summarily rejected by Everton.
It is up for debate whether tabling £50m upfront would tempt the Toffees into offloading Branthwaite. They have always maintained that they want £70m for the England international.
The sale of Amadou Onana to Aston Villa strengthened their financial position as well, so they are not desperate to sell.
Other centre-halves are being pursued
Branthwaite is by no means the only defender who has been considered by United’s recruitment team. It appears as if they have made contact with ex-Atletico Madrid player Mario Hermoso, who is available on a free transfer.
The Manchester club have also been locked in talks with Bayern Munich for Matthijs de Ligt. However, they haven’t been able to meet the Dutchman’s €50m (£43m) asking price.
A bid was made for both de Ligt and his teammate Noussair Mazraoui last week but the money put on the table was deemed insufficient. Personal terms have been agreed with the pair but talks have seemingly reached an impasse. That may have prompted the club’s decision to go back in for Branthwaite, in addition to the news about Yoro.
