BREAKING NEWS:  Everton could face an uphill battle to retain one of their prized young assets, as a jaw-dropping offer from a heavyweight European club threatens to turn the player’s head this summer.

Man Utd Set £55m Ceiling for Everton Starlet Branthwaite Amid Toffees’ Financial Woes

Manchester United are attempting to exploit Everton’s precarious financial position by refusing to pay more than £55 million for highly-rated young defender Jarrad Branthwaite, according to reports.

The 21-year-old centre-back is understood to be a prime summer target for United, but the Red Devils are looking for indications that the cash-strapped Toffees may be forced into a cut-price sale.

Everton are said to be holding out for a fee in the region of £80m for the England youth international. However, United believe the Merseysiders’ monetary troubles could see them reluctantly accept a significantly lower offer of £55m.

The report states: “Manchester United have decided that the maximum they are willing to fork out for Branthwaite’s signature is £55million, and they are looking for early indications that Everton are desperate to cash in because they are not in a comfortable financial situation and may need to sell prized assets.”

Everton were recently found guilty of breaching profit and sustainability rules, which could necessitate the sale of key players like Branthwaite to raise funds and avoid further sanctions.

With the 21-year-old emerging as one of the Toffees’ standout performers this season and earning interest from multiple top clubs, his valuation could continue rising if he forces his way into England’s Euro 2024 squad with strong performances.

Such factors are likely only strengthening United’s resolve to test Everton’s resolve with a £55m bid well below their reported £80m asking price in the knowledge the troubled club may ultimately need to cash in on prized assets.

For Everton, the option of losing a future cornerstone like Branthwaite would be a major blow. But the dire financial constraints they find themselves operating under could leave them with little choice but to reluctantly accept United’s offer.

The situation may also hinge on the outcome of the proposed Everton takeover, which could ease monetary pressures if successfully completed and potentially allow them to retain Branthwaite’s services.