Branthwaite transfer back in play – Can Tottenham take advantage as Manchester United falter
Tottenham Hotspur FC have expressed interest in Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite as they seek to bolster their defensive options, according to the Daily Mail. Initially, Manchester United seemed to have taken the lead in the race to sign the 21-year-old England international, overtaking Spurs as the favourites.
However, the situation has shifted, giving Tottenham another chance to secure the player’s services. The Red Devils’ initial bid was deemed insufficient and disrespectful by Everton, according to the club’s former chief Keith Wyness. This misstep by the Red Devils has reopened the door for Spurs to make a move for the promising defender.
Wyness slams Man United’s low-ball offer for Branthwaite
Wyness, who served as the CEO of Everton between 2004 and 2009, now runs a consulting firm advising elite clubs. In the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old criticized Man United’s handling of negotiations for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, describing their approach as “very badly” managed and disrespectful to the Merseyside club.
According to Wyness, Man United submitted a £35 million bid plus add-ons for the England international, significantly lower than Everton’s £80 million valuation. Sean Dyche’s team had made it clear they valued Branthwaite highly, and United’s offer was seen as an attempt to exploit Everton’s financial difficulties. This lowball offer has given Tottenham another opportunity to pursue the promising 21-year-old defender, as they look to strengthen their defensive lineup.
Keith Wyness, speaking on the podcast had this to say.
“There is a pretty fair consensus in football that Branthwaite is a young, very talented player. We’ve seen some of the transfers United themselves have done in recent years, so to put him at £70 million is certainly nothing ridiculous.”
“United came in at £35 million with £8 million in add-ons.”
“They could have gotten to £50-55 million in a room with Everton; they didn’t have to go up to the full valuation. But all they’ve done is harden the resolve. In a negotiation like this, it’s not a smart way to handle it. You’ve got to put yourself in the other club’s shoes. You have to be realistic and respect them.”
With both United and Everton yet to reach an agreement, there is still time for Spurs to jump in at the 11th hour. Branthwaite is an exciting player and will add depth and quality to what is a young and exciting Tottenham centre-back roster.
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Tottenham could seize this opportunity to engage directly with Everton officials and negotiate a deal for Branthwaite. The 21-year-old is regarded as one of the brightest defensive talents in the country, and acquiring him would significantly bolster Spurs’ backline, potentially placing them among the top defences in the league, comparable to Arsenal and Manchester City.
However, Daniel Levy’s reputation for hard-nosed negotiations and lowball offers might play a crucial role in how these discussions unfold. It remains to be seen whether the Spurs honcho will adopt a more flexible approach or will stick to his usual frugal financial approach.
