Ratcliffe tells PL club demanding £80m: United won't overpay for star defender - report

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is determined not to overpay for Jarrad Branthwaite as the club has done in the previous transfer windows.

In recent times, Man United have fallen into the overpayment traps for their transfer targets. A glaring instance is the acquisition of Antony from Ajax for a mind-boggling £86 million.

Ratcliffe wants to draw a line in the sand and is steadfast in his determination to avoid overpaying.

According to the Daily Star, the British billionaire has told Everton that he will not be held to ransom as he looks to make Branthwaite one of his first major signings at United.

The Toffees are demanding around £80m for the England international but United appraise his value closer to £60m.

Man United should not held captive by inflated price tags

The Red Devils must not allow themselves to be controlled or influenced by excessively high prices set by others.

Over the last few years, United have overpaid for their transfer targets and sold their players at a cut-price deal.

Branthwaite has enjoyed a stellar season with the Toffees and has attracted interest from several clubs.

With Raphael Varane departing and uncertainties surrounding the futures of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, United must prioritise securing a top-tier centre-back this summer.

Branthwaite is high up on their transfer list. However, Everton are trying to play hardball tactics by demanding a staggering £80m.

United must resist the temptation to match their demands head-on and instead focus on negotiating to lower the asking price.

INEOS and Ratcliffe have to hit the ground running in the transfer window. The Red Devils have made really awful decisions in recent years and they must reverse that trend starting this summer.