Manchester United agree personal terms with Newcastle United target after St James' Park visit

Manchester United have reportedly agreed personal terms with Jarrad Branthwaite with the next step now to agree a transfer fee with Everton.

The Carlisle-born defender is fresh from enjoying a breakout season at Goodison Park. He made 35 Premier League appearances to form the fourth best defence in the division, with only Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool conceding less.

Branthwaite received international recognition earlier this month when he was called up to England’s 33-man provisional squad for Euro 2024. Although he was left out of the final 26, he did make his debut as a substitute in the 3-0 win over Bosnia & Herzegovina at St James’ Park.

A number of clubs are huge admirers of Branthwaite, including Newcastle United, but Man United are the first club to make a move. As per The Times, the Red Devils have already agreed personal terms with their top target.

But there remains one major obstacle, and that’s the transfer fee. Considering Branthwaite’s nationality, left-footedness and young age, Everton want at least £70million for the 21-year-old - an asking price Erik ten Hag’s men are reluctant to meet.

Knowing the figures involved, Newcastle have stepped back from any potential deal, instead setting aside the bulk of their budget - which will be restricted by Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) - to recruit a right forward.

The Magpies also announced the signing of Lloyd Kelly on Thursday afternoon. The 25-year-old, who can operate at left-back or centre-back, has penned a five-year contract ahead officially leaving AFC Bournemouth on June 30.

With the left side of defence covered, any defender Newcastle potentially sign now will be to rival Fabian Schar on the right side.