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Erik Ten Hag (Source-Goal)
Everton FC have taken Jarrad Branthwaite off the transfer market to deal a huge blow to Manchester United. The Red Devils are still in the hunt for a defender just days after singing Lenny Yoro from Lillee. There were talks of United looking to sign either Jarrad Branthwaite or Matthijs De Ligt.
It has come to light that Everton values their young defender at 70 Million Euros. This is a valuation that Manchester United are reluctant to meet. As per reports doing the rounds, Everton will not budge from their desired valuation for their prized asset.
Manchester United had agreed personal terms with the young defender. The price was a sticking point as Everton rejected two bids from the Old Trafford side. With Branthwaite now off the market, United will have to turn their gaze elsewhere to shore up their defence.
Is Erik Ten Hag set to move on to a new target?
Just a few days ago, Jarrad Branthwaite while speaking to the media said, "I think for me it's just about taking what I learned from last season, and the season before, and putting it all together.”
It was reported that Jarrad Branthwaite fancied a move to Manchester United and become part of the new INEOS revolution. The youngster had also said, "I think last season, playing all the games I did helped me put performances in and get the experience I needed. I'm going to take that to this season and keep learning. When you've got a good defensive record, it gives you confidence going into the new season.”
Young Branthwaite also added, “It's not just the defenders who contribute to that, it's the whole team and it's the way the manager has us set up to give us the best possible chance to win games and to pick up as many points as we can. I think it'll be the same again this season. Hopefully, we can pick up a few wins early on and get the momentum going in the new season."
Erik Ten Hag while speaking to the Dutch outlet Algemeen Dadblad, said, “We still have to wait and see whether De Ligt will come. But the good thing is, during my vacation I was out of the process for three or four weeks. During that period it was really the club, the newly established scouting and recruitment department, that brought in these players/”
The Dutch coach also stated, “The fact that there are also Dutch players among them is actually a coincidence. Primarily these were players who were brought in by our organisation. But of course I support them, let that be clear – and we still make the choice together.” So far, Manchester United have signed Joshua Zirkzee and Lenny Yoro and there are talks of Manuel Ugarte being next on the list.