England international INEOS were desperate to recruit might be beyond their reach as new contract talks rumble on – report

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Manchester United’s chances of landing long-term target Jarrad Branthwaite could be evaporating fast if the latest reports are true.

As per Teamtalk, Everton are advancing in talks with the centre-back over a new long-term deal, which could see the 22-year-old become the club’s top earner.

David Moyes is a fan of the Englishman and wants to make him the centerpiece of his new project, and the player is also open to extending his contract, provided the new deal reflects his rise.

Should a new deal be agreed, the Toffees will not entertain thoughts of selling the highly-coveted defender for even £70 million, the amount they had demanded from the Red Devils last summer.

Jarrad Branthwaite new deal

INEOS had submitted two bids, the latest in the region of £50 million, but the Merseyside outfit had turned both down. There was also interest from Manchester City as well as Real Madrid.

“Everton are in pressing on with talks with Jarrad Branthwaite over a lucrative new contract that could see the 22-year-old defender become one of the club’s highest earners, TEAMtalk understands.

“The Toffees are determined to fend off interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, and Manchester United, who have all listed the England international as a prime target.

“Sources indicate Everton’s hierarchy views Branthwaite as untouchable, with a £70 million valuation set as the minimum to even open transfer negotiations – a stance that underscores their resolve to retain him.

No chance of a deal currently

“The proposed contract would place Branthwaite among Everton’s top earners, potentially surpassing the wages of players like Jordan Pickford and making him the clubs top earner.”

The England international’s current deal is valid until 2027 with Everton having the option of triggering a one-year extension.

Ayden Heaven’s emergence last season has meant the 20-time English league champions are not in a frantic rush to strengthen at the back, with INEOS prioritising improving the team’s attack this summer.

Whether the co-owners return for Jarrad Branthwaite next summer will be interesting to see, especially if Everton do agree this new deal with the defender. He could potentially become the costliest defender in the world should any team come in for him.

Feature image Alex Livesey via Getty Images

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