Report: Newcastle emerge as 'contenders' for £75m England international from PL rivals

Manchester United are thought to be frontrunners for Everton and England star Jarrad Branthwaite but Newcastle United are among a host of clubs hoping to scupper their plans.

Newcastle have been credited with an interest in Jarrad Branthwaite in the past and it looks like the Magpies are still very keen on the defender who has had a fantastic season with Everton despite their struggles.

Branthwaite was called up to the latest England squad alongside former teammate Anthony Gordon for the last round of international friendlies but the 21-year-old was unused by Gareth Southgate in either game.

His call-up is still an indication of how well he's done this season and why Manchester United are so keen to sign him this summer.

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Branthwaite is wanted by some big hitters this summer

The Carlisle-born defender has had loan spells at PSV and Blackburn before becoming an indispensable part of Sean Dyche's Everton side and the price they've set reflects that status.

Everton are asking £75million to take Branthwaite away from Goodison Park this summer, and given Everton's need to balance their books, it's a high likelihood that they will let him go, it's now just a case of where he goes to.

Football Transfers claim Man United lead the pack, but Newcastle, Manchester City and Real Madrid will also be vying for his services.

It's a big fee but it could be worth it for Newcastle

That's some extremely stiff competition Newcastle would face if they were to try and sign Branthwaite, but at the same time, Newcastle could easily sell the idea of regular football better than the other three sides.

With Sven Botman's injury set to keep him out of action for the entirety of 2024, Newcastle desperately need a top-class defender to fill the void he's left, and one that could stick around for the long term and improve would be ideal.

£75million is a big hit for the club who are taking a cautious approach to spending due to the financial regulations in play, but Branthwaite is such an impressive talent that he could be worth the punt.