Manchester United learn fresh Everton 'stance' after Jarrad Branthwaite transfer snub

Manchester United could face the difficult task of convincing Everton into selling star defender Jarrad Branthwaite, according to reports.

The Toffees are close to being taken over by American businessman Daniel Friedkin after the purchase of Farhad Moshiri's 94 percent stake was agreed. United were strongly interested in the England defender after a standout campaign for the Merseyside club in their battle for safety.

During the summer transfer window, Erik ten Hag's side were looking for wholesale reinforcements as the new-look football hierarchy, made up of Omar Berrada, Dan Ashworth and Jason Wilcox, set out for the first time since arriving at Old Trafford. Branthwaite was highlighted as one of the defensive targets, as were Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt.

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Everton rejected two bids from their North West counterparts in the summer, the second offer worth around £50million. And Football Insider have claimed that sources have told them that the prospective new owner is keen not to send the wrong signals to Everton fans or their Premier League rivals by selling the 22-year-old.

It has been previously claimed that United could return to the negotiation table for the England international, but if recent reports are to be believed, Ten Hag faces the difficult prospect of persuading Everton into a sale.

Branthwaite returned to the Toffees backline for the first time this season during Saturday's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace. The centre-back has been recovering from groin surgery, and manager Sean Dyche insists there will be no