Manchester United plans £50m bid for Jarrad Branthwaite, contingent on Champions League qualification

Manchester United is intensifying its pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, reportedly willing to pay over £50 million for the 22-year-old this summer. However, Branthwaite has indicated that he will only consider a move to Old Trafford if United secures Champions League football for next season, a prospect that hinges on their performance in the Europa League. Currently, United is in 13th place in the Premier League but has advanced to the quarter-finals of the Europa League, where they face Lyon. United's manager, Ruben Amorim, is under pressure to revamp the squad, especially with several defensive players potentially leaving. Everton's current boss, David Moyes, has previously stated that any interested parties will need a significant budget to sign Branthwaite, who has excelled this season. As United aims for a turnaround, their success in Europe could be crucial not just for silverware but also for attracting top talent like Branthwaite.