Everton’s latest failed takeover puts them back in a precarious financial position, meaning another big sale might be needed as Man United spy a deal for Jarrad Branthwaite
Manchester United’s hopes of landing Jarrad Branthwaite might be revived following the collapse of Everton’s proposed takeover.
On Friday, American billionaire Dan Friedkin pulled the Friedkin Group out of Everton buy-out discussions due to legal concerns over debts relating to former failed takeover hopefuls 777 Partners.
It means the Toffees are placed in a precarious financial position once again, despite the expected £50m sale of Amadou Onana to Aston Villa, and might be forced to sell Brathwaite against their ultimate wishes.
United have seen two bids for Branthwaite – £43m and £50m – rejected this summer, amid speculation that the board had all but given up on the defender given Everton’s adamant £70m price tag.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has since overseen the arrival of centre-back Leny Yoro in a deal potentially rising to £59m. Personal terms with Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt have also been agreed albeit a fee with his club has not.
Everton were baffled by United’s decision to splash out such a high fee on 18-year-old Yoro – who is three years younger than Branthwaite, does not have Premier League experience and only had a year left on his deal – after being so reluctant to meet their asking price for their defender.
The Telegraph claims that United still have no plans to meet Everton’s asking price, which they deem unduly steep, but might be eventually prepared to table a maximum third proposal of £55m, and no higher.
It adds that United have set out their budget for De Ligt and would have no qualms in walking away from a deal if Bayern play hardball over the 24-year-old’s fee.
