AliousManchester United legend Andy Cole has backed Everton’s stance in rejecting the initial bid for their young center-back Jarrad Branthwaite.
Cole believes his former club has a history of overpaying for central defenders, and Everton are justified in demanding a higher fee.
When the summer transfer window opened on Friday, Manchester United submitted an opening offer of £35 million, plus around £8 million in add-ons, for Branthwaite.
However, Everton deemed this bid unacceptable, as they believe the 21-year-old England international is worth significantly more after his extraordinary breakthrough season in the Premier League.
Everton planned to reject the bid, which may have been intentionally low due to Manchester United’s belief that they could exploit the club’s financial situation. As one of several clubs seeking to comply with spending regulations, a sale before the end-of-month accounting deadline could benefit Everton’s efforts.
Nonetheless, the offer for Branthwaite was considered derisory, with Everton seeking a substantially higher fee for the young talent, reportedly around £70 million.
Sharing his thoughts on the matter, Andy Cole wholeheartedly supported Everton’s valuation.
“100%. He’s 21 years old, Manchester United have offered £35 million plus add-ons, so why would Everton try and do them a favor and say that it’s a fantastic deal for them, especially when you consider the problems they have,” Cole told Betfred.
“Every center-half that Manchester United has bought in the last 10 years, they’ve overpaid for.
They’ve spent a fortune on them, so what’s going to change now? To get him out of Everton, it’s going to cost you more than £35m plus add-ons.”
Cole’s remarks suggest that Everton owes Manchester United no favors and should demand a premium for their prized asset, given the latter’s track record of overpaying for center-backs in recent years.
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