Manchester United centre-back search faces latest twist amid Jarrad Branthwaite threat

Manchester United's search for a centre-back could face another twist with the club prepared to walk away from a deal for Jarrad Branthwaite if there is no indication Everton are willing to compromise over a transfer fee.

United are still working to sign the Everton star this summer but remain far apart in their valuation of the player after they saw an opening bid of £35 million plus £8m in add-ons rejected.

Everton sources insist their intention is to keep Branthwaite this summer and they would only consider selling him if they received a 'mega offer.' It is understood the Merseyside club value the 21-year-old at over £70 million with previous deals for Harry Maguire, Wesley Fofana and Josko Gvardiol cited as evidence for such a price-tag.

If anything, there is even an argument to suggest Branthwaite is worth more than those three due to his age, nationality and the fact he is a left-footer, who is also comfortable playing on the right.

From United's point of view, they insist they do not have the funds to spend such a fee on a single player this summer and believe their opening offer for Branthwaite is already a reasonable one for a player who has only one full season of Premier League experience under his belt. While a compromise could yet be found, it seems like any hope of a deal would rely on United offering more money up front, with plenty of achievable add-ons attached, while Everton would also have to drop their valuation of the player.

United are restricted by an initial transfer budget believed to be in the region of £50 million, which will be further supplemented by player sales. Due to this, it is difficult for United to know exactly how much money they have to work with until the likes of Mason Greenwood, Jadon Sancho and Casemiro are moved on this summer.

Erik ten Hag's side have already missed out on the signing of Tosin Adarabioyo who has joined Chelsea, while a move for Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo is currently off under Uefa rules. Crystal Palace ace Marc Guehi is also of interest to the club but it is understood Crystal Palace would only entertain bids of at least £65 million for him, a figure which could rise after his exploits at the European Championship.

United have prioritised the addition of at least one centre-back this summer ahead of Raphael Varane's exit as a free agent, while they could sign another to offset the proposed sale of Victor Lindelof as well.