Real Madrid now want to sign Manchester City target Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton.
That is according to the Daily Mail.
So, what is the latest on Manchester City target Jarrad Branthwaite? Let’s take a look…
Real Madrid join Branthwaite race
Well, it was the Daily Mail who claimed back in October that Manchester City are monitoring the England U21 international.
Branthwaite has shone so far this season after finally nailing down a place in Everton’s starting XI.
In November, it was revealed by WhoScored that only Jeremy Doku had registered a better average rating than the Everton No.32 in the Premier League – as far as U21 players are concerned.
Now, however – according to a new story by the Daily Mail – Real Madrid plan to rival Manchester City for Branthwaite’s signature.
It is said that Carlo Ancelotti wants a reunion with the 21-year-old after working with him at Goodison Park.
Real Madrid are considering a summer swoop for Branthwaite amid injuries to Eder Militao and David Alaba, having received glowing reports regarding the Carlisle-born defender.
Everton would love to keep Branthwaite, although the Toffees may be forced into a sale to ease financial issues.
Manchester City and Real Madrid may be priced out of Branthwaite deal
While Manchester City and Real Madrid are two of the wealthiest clubs around, they may still struggle to finance this deal given Everton’s huge asking price.
A story from iNews claims that the Merseysiders want a nine figure sum to sell Branthwaite, which means a minimum £100m asking price.
In our view, it feels unlikely that Real Madrid will pay that much just to cover Alaba and Militao.
In regards to Manchester City, it also seems unrealistic that Pep Guardiola will want to spend that much on Branthwaite, when Josko Gvardiol has only recently arrived for £77.6m and is yet to be used in his natural position in the centre of defence.
Nevertheless, anything could happen in the transfer market, so make sure to keep an eye out for further developments.
