Manchester United Secure Personal Terms with Newcastle Target Following St James’ Park Visit
Newcastle United have decided not to pursue Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, despite tracking him closely. Meanwhile, Manchester United have reportedly agreed on personal terms with Branthwaite and are now negotiating a transfer fee with Everton.
Branthwaite, born in Carlisle, had a breakout season at Everton, making 35 Premier League appearances and helping form the league’s fourth-best defense, with fewer goals conceded than all but Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool. His performance earned him a call-up to England’s 33-man provisional squad for Euro 2024. Although he was not included in the final 26, he debuted as a substitute in a 3-0 win over Bosnia & Herzegovina at St James’ Park.
Several clubs, including Newcastle United, admire Branthwaite, but Manchester United are the first to make a move. According to The Times, they have agreed on personal terms with their top target. The main hurdle now is the transfer fee. Due to Branthwaite’s nationality, left-footedness, and young age, Everton demands at least £70 million, a price Manchester United is hesitant to meet.
Newcastle United, aware of the financial implications, have withdrawn from the potential deal. Instead, they are focusing their budget, which is limited by Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR), on acquiring a right forward.
Additionally, Newcastle announced the signing of Lloyd Kelly on Thursday. The 25-year-old, who can play both left-back and center-back, has signed a five-year contract and will officially leave AFC Bournemouth on June 30. With Kelly covering the left side of the defense, any new defensive signing for Newcastle will likely be to compete with Fabian Schar on the right side.
