Everton unlikely to have 'Lofty' asking price for exit-linked star met in January - report

Manchester United reviving their interest in signing Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton after Ruben Amorim’s arrival cannot be ruled out, according to The Athletic.

However, having had bids worth up to £50million rejected in the summer, the Red Devils are not in a position to meet the Toffees’ £80m price tag, as per the outlet via their website on 26 December.

It is unlikely that any club will shell out that much amount of money for the centre-back in the January transfer window, although clubs “higher up the table than United” are expected to be in the mix in the summer.

Everton to keep Jarrad Branthwaite at Goodison Park beyond January transfer window

Branthwaite is arguably the best player in Sean Dyche’s squad and it would be a huge blow if he left in January.

The Merseyside-based club have looked much more assured in defence since the 22-year-old returned from injury, suffering only one defeat in the seven Premier League he has started.

Everton’s £80m asking price in January is, therefore, justified, although it might change at the end of the season when the defender will have two years remaining on his contract.

Manchester City have also been linked with a move for the one-time England international [The Telegraph], but it appears they will have to wait until the summer.

The Toffees, though, have a decision to make regarding Michael Keane, who is set to enter the final six months of his contract.

Keane is attracting “widespread interest”, according to The Athletic, and it remains to be seen if Dyche will sanction an exit for him in January.

In other Everton news, Fabrizio Romano has revealed interest in Serie A players ahead of January.

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