Journalist Discusses Possibility of Man United Signing De Ligt and Everton Talent Branthwaite

Manchester United had shown strong interest in bringing Everton’s centre-back to Old Trafford this summer, but recent reports indicate a deal is now less likely. Instead, their focus has shifted to Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich [talkSPORT, 1 July].

Although there are suggestions that United still have a keen eye on both Branthwaite and the Dutch defender [Dharmesh Sheth, 1 July], journalist Chris Beesley from the Liverpool Echo believes signing both players while adhering to financial regulations like PSR is unlikely.

Speaking on the Royal Blue Mersey YouTube channel (2 July, 17:25), Beesley explained, “United were strong contenders for Jarrad Branthwaite, and then there’s Matthijs De Ligt. David Ornstein, who has excellent connections, emphasized that these two deals are independent of each other, not linked.”

“However,” he continued, “from a PSR perspective, if United pursue De Ligt, it’s improbable they could also secure Branthwaite.”

Will Jarrad Branthwaite leave Everton for Manchester United in the summer transfer window?

Everton holds a strong position this summer regarding Branthwaite’s future, as they are not under pressure to sell to comply with Premier League financial fair play rules.

This allows Everton to set a high asking price for the English international, regardless of whether any club meets their valuation. If they do sell, it provides significant funds for Sean Dyche’s squad; if not, they retain one of English football’s most promising young defenders for another season — a win-win situation.

Ultimately, United will need to prioritize between their summer targets, as securing both defenders appears increasingly impractical.

Considering their approach so far, pursuing De Ligt seems more likely, given United’s apparent reluctance to meet Everton’s valuation for Branthwaite.