Premier League giants Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly locked in a fierce transfer battle for Everton’s highly-rated defender Jarrad Branthwaite, with a potential £70 million deal on the cards.

Rising Star Attracts Premier League Interest

Since his £1 million move from Carlisle United in 2020, Branthwaite has blossomed into one of England’s most promising defensive talents. The 23-year-old’s development through loan spells at PSV Eindhoven and Blackburn Rovers has been nothing short of exceptional, transforming him into a key figure at Goodison Park with 75 appearances under his belt.

Despite signing a new five-year contract in July, Caughtoffside reports that both Manchester United and Tottenham remain firmly interested in prising the 6ft 4in centre-back away from Merseyside.

Why Both Clubs Want Branthwaite

United’s interest isn’t new—they’ve been tracking the England international for some time as part of their defensive rebuild under Ruben Amorim. After a rocky start, the Red Devils have found momentum, collecting ten points from their last four matches, and now Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen to back his manager in the transfer market.

Spurs, meanwhile, are desperate for defensive reinforcements. Thomas Frank’s side have managed just two clean sheets in their last eight league games, with their recent 1-0 home defeat to Chelsea exposing familiar vulnerabilities. A left-footed centre-back like Branthwaite fits their profile perfectly.

The £70m Question

Here’s the stumbling block: Everton have slapped a £70 million price tag on their prized asset—a figure United baulked at last summer. With both clubs needing defensive upgrades but operating under financial constraints, it remains to be seen whether either will meet Everton’s valuation or pivot to more affordable alternatives.