Manchester United Intensifies Pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite with Improved £50m Offer Manchester United have reportedly submitted an improved offer of up to £50 million for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, according to the Transfer Centre News. The Red Devils are eager to bolster their defense this summer and have identified the highly-rated 20-year-old as a potential target. Branthwaite, a product of Everton’s youth academy, has impressed with his performances for the first team in recent seasons. His versatility, playing both at center-back and left-back, has made him an attractive prospect for clubs looking to strengthen their backline. United’s previous offer for Branthwaite was believed to be in the region of £30 million, but Everton were quick to reject it. The Merseysiders value their young defender highly and are reportedly seeking a fee in excess of £50 million. The Red Devils’ improved offer appears to be a direct response to Everton’s demands. However, it remains to be seen whether it will be enough to convince the Toffees to part ways with their prized asset. Branthwaite has not featured prominently for Everton this season, making only nine appearances in all competitions. But his performances in the past have caught the attention of numerous top clubs, including Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City. Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is keen to sign a new center-back to partner Harry Maguire. The Dutchman has been critical of his team’s defensive performances this season, and Branthwaite is seen as a player who can provide stability and quality at the back. If the deal goes through, Branthwaite would become one of the most expensive defenders in Premier League history. The £50 million fee would eclipse the previous record set by Harry Maguire’s move to Manchester United from Leicester City in 2019.Manchester United Bid for Everton Defender Jarrad BranthwaiteManchester United Bid for Everton Defender Jarrad Branthwaite Manchester United have submitted a second offer for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, reportedly in the region of £45 million plus £5 million in add-ons. However, the bid is expected to be rejected by Everton. Previously, Everton turned down an initial offer from United that was significantly lower than their valuation of the player. Everton considers Branthwaite a crucial part of their defense, and he played 35 times for the team in the Premier League last season. Despite this, he was not included in England’s preliminary squad for Euro 2024. Recruitment of a new center back is a priority for Manchester United this summer, as Raphael Varane departed the club at the end of last season. Summer Transfer Window Open The 2024 summer transfer window in the Premier League and Scottish Premiership is now officially open, and it will close on August 30 at 11 pm UK time for England and 11:30 pm UK time for Scotland. This revised deadline aligns with other major European leagues and ensures a more synchronized transfer market across the continent.Manchester United have submitted an improved offer of up to £50m for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, according to Sky Sports. The Premier League giants had a £30m bid rejected for the 20-year-old last week, but have now returned with an increased offer that includes add-ons. Branthwaite has been a key player for Everton’s Under-23s this season, and has also made three appearances for the first team. The England U20 international is seen as a potential long-term replacement for Harry Maguire at Old Trafford. Manchester United are keen to strengthen their defence this summer, and have also been linked with moves for Villarreal’s Pau Torres and RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol. Everton are reluctant to sell Branthwaite, but may be tempted to cash in if United’s offer meets their valuation.