SIR JIM RATCLIFFE is not willing to pay Everton’s asking price for Jarrad Branthwaite, according to reports.
The England defender has been strongly linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer.
PASir Jim Ratcliffe is wary of being drawn into a bidding war for Jarrad Branthwaite[/caption]
GettyBranthwaite is valued at £70million by Everton amid interest from Manchester United[/caption]
Branthwaite, 21, emerged as a target for the Red Devils after a breakthrough season with the Toffees.
However, Everton’s £70million valuation has put off co-owner Ratcliffe, despite reports a deal could be wrapped up by the end of June.
According to talkSPORT, United are reluctant to meet the asking price for Branthwaite.
Ratcliffe is determined not to be forced into paying over-inflated fees as he overhauls the squad ahead of next season.
The British billionaire is also wary of being drawn into a bidding war against himself.
Despite reported interest from Real Madrid, he believes United are the only serious suitors in the race to sign Branthwaite.
Having only signed a new deal through to 2027 in October, Branthwaite is valued highly by Everton.
He scored three goals from defence in 35 Premier League appearances to help his side finish 15th last term.
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His displays also earned a place in England’s provisional squad for Euro 2024.
However, after making his debut against Bosnia & Herzegovina, Branthwaite was one of seven players cut by Gareth Southgate last week.
Central defence is expected to be an area United target this summer ahead of Raphael Varane’s exit at the end of his contract.
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The club held talks with Tosin Adarabioyo before he joined rivals Chelsea on a free transfer from Fulham.
Meanwhile, United remain interested in long-term target Jean-Clair Todibo.