Alex MacQuoid
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Liverpool have emerged as shock contenders for Jarrad Branthwaite, with the Everton centre-back now valued at £80million. A move for the Englishman would complicate Manchester United’s long-standing pursuit of the defender and force a rethink at Old Trafford.
Branthwaite has sat on Manchester United‘s shortlist for over two years. During the summer of 2024, United tabled an offer worth £35million plus add-ons for the centre-back, then returned with an improved £50million proposal. Everton rejected both bids, holding firm on a £70million valuation at the time.
Football Insider reports that the Toffees have since raised their asking price to around £80million, a figure that reflects their belief that Branthwaite ranks among the best defenders in the Premier League. The outlet claims he remains a priority target for United as they look to overhaul their backline heading into next year.
United are tipped to sign a left-back, a right-back and two central defenders as part of a broader defensive reset. Those additions would allow the club to move on from established names including Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire.
United are described as potential frontrunners for Branthwaite given the depth of their interest, but Liverpool could disrupt those plans entirely. Andoni Iraola’s side reportedly admire the 23-year-old and may look to move for him in 2027.
Liverpool face a tougher path to a deal than United, given the rivalry between Merseyside’s two clubs and the history of acrimony surrounding transfers between them.
Football Insider journalist Pete O’Rourke commented on the growing interest:
“Clubs are continuing to have a look at Branthwaite because he’s a top player. He’s had his progress hampered by injuries in the last 18 months or so, but looks to be back fully fit now. Manchester United are long-term admirers of his and tried to sign him a couple of summers ago, but a couple of derisory bids were rejected by Everton, who are quite relaxed about the whole situation. He signed a new deal last summer, so he’s under contract at Everton until 2030.”
Liverpool and Man Utd Set for Branthwaite Battle
O’Rourke added further context on where United’s priorities lie heading into the next transfer window.
“There is always going to be interest in top players like Jarrad Branthwaite. Man United, we know, are probably gonna have a big restructure of their defence, so I’m sure that Branthwaite will be pretty high up their list.”
Branthwaite has also been floated as a potential target for Eddie Howe, should he take charge at Old Trafford. Michael Carrick remains in interim control for the weekend trip to Chelsea, according to reporter Laurie Whitwell.
Why Branthwaite Fits Liverpool’s Long-Term Plan
For Liverpool, landing Branthwaite would address a pressing succession issue at centre-back. Virgil van Dijk remains the club’s captain and defensive leader, but he is entering the latter stages of his career, and Liverpool need a ready-made solution rather than a developmental project.
Branthwaite could slot alongside Jeremy Jacquet at Anfield, forming a partnership built on pace and aerial strength. His presence would also benefit the development of younger centre-backs Giovanni Leoni and Ifeanyi Ndukwe, giving the club’s academy prospects a proven Premier League defender to learn from.
Liverpool’s interest in central defense extends beyond Branthwaite. The club has also been linked with a centre-half at Brighton, suggesting the Reds are casting a wide net as they plan for the post-Van Dijk era.
Branthwaite’s contract situation gives Everton leverage in any negotiation. Tied down until 2030, the Toffees are under no pressure to sell cheap, and they know both Liverpool and United have the financial muscle to meet their valuation if either club decides to push through a deal.
The next transfer window could define Branthwaite’s career trajectory. Staying at Everton keeps him as the club’s defensive cornerstone. Moving to Old Trafford places him in a rebuild. Switching to Anfield would mean learning under Van Dijk before inheriting the captaincy’s defensive burden. Follow TipsGG for updates as this transfer saga develops.
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