Manchester Is Preparing Its Second Offer To Include The Everton Defender

English press reports indicate that Manchester United are preparing to make a second offer for defender Jarrad Branthwaite, but Everton remains firm on the player's price of 70 million pounds. The Red Devils have identified the England centre-back as a key target to shore up their defense and have made an initial bid of £43m for his services, excluding add-ons. However, the offer was quickly rejected by the Toffees, as they believed their player could receive a larger sum. According to the Daily Mail, United are reluctant to abandon their pursuit of the player, and are preparing to improve the offer with Everton remaining firm on their £70m valuation for Branthwaite. The Merseyside club believe the fee closer to the £80m that Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire is a fair reflection of Branthwaite's value and are using that as a benchmark during negotiations. Following the departure of Raphael Varane, United's backline needs strengthening and Branthwaite's youth, combined with his Premier League experience, makes him an ideal candidate for manager Erik ten Hag's long-term plans.