Sky journalist shares the ‘real problem’ Manchester United face in pursuit of Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite

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Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol has shared the “real problem” Manchester United face in their pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

The Times reported on Thursday evening [13 June] that the England international has agreed personal terms with United, although an agreement with Everton is still yet to be reached.

Early indications suggest the Toffees are set to be hard to negotiate with and that United are reluctant to meet current demands.

Solhekol, speaking on Sky Sports News on Friday morning, has shared the latest.

‘Real problems’ yet to emerge for Manchester United in Jarrad Branthwaite pursuit

The Sky Sports man reiterated Everton’s stubborn position on Branthwaite’s future and suggested the “real problem” for United will be negotiations with the Toffees.

“I think the real problem is going to start when Manchester United actually negotiate with Everton because I don’t think Everton are going to let him go without a fight,” he explained.

“We know United are looking at centre-backs; they’ve had problems in that position. Towards the end of the season, Casemiro was playing there, Varane is leaving, and there are question marks over the future of Jonny Evans, so I am sure Manchester United will sign at least one or two centre-backs this summer, and their top target is Jarrad Branthwaite.”

£70m or it’s off the cards

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£70m has been widely reported at the Toffees’ asking price for Branthwaite – and it’s essential the club stick to their asking price.

The Cumbrian has proven himself to be essential to Sean Dyche’s plans this season, having formed a rock-solid partnership with James Tarkowski at the heart of the Blues’ defence.

Given his age and evident ability, anything less than £70m would feel like poor business for the Blues.

Regardless of whether Branthwaite leaves or not, ensuring this transfer saga is put to be quickly is essential.

The board, along with Dyche, need time to replace the centre back adequately. Desperately searching for a replacement deep into the window must be avoided.