Everton are bracing themselves for a fight to keep Jarrad Branthwaite, with some of the Premier League’s biggest clubs circling for the highly rated defender.
According to reports from Fichajes, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea are all monitoring the 23-year-old centre-back, who has quickly established himself as Everton’s most important defensive figure. United are even said to be preparing an offer in the region of £60 million, though Everton remain firm in their stance that Jarrad Branthwaite is “not for sale.”
That determination is understandable. Sean Dyche’s side have been battling relegation in recent seasons, and losing their defensive anchor would be a huge blow. Jarrad Branthwaite, who has developed into a commanding presence at the back, represents both the present and future of the Toffees. Selling him could risk undermining their efforts to push up the table and establish some stability.
Still, the lure of a move to one of England’s top clubs may be difficult for Jarrad Branthwaite to ignore. He is 23 years old and about to enter his prime.
From the perspective of the suitors, the interest is easy to explain. Manchester United are looking at long-term options to eventually replace Harry Maguire and add depth alongside Lisandro Martínez. Ange Postecoglou is eager to add another top player to Tottenham’s back line, which is largely dependent on Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven. Chelsea’s central defense is also in doubt because Axel Disasi hasn’t convinced and Benoît Badiashile has been erratic.
Whether Everton can withstand the pressure is now the crucial question. A £60 million bid would be significant for a club still navigating financial challenges, but losing Branthwaite could derail their ambitions of re-establishing themselves in the Premier League’s top half. For the player, much will depend on how Everton’s season unfolds. Continued struggles near the bottom may only strengthen his desire to move on, while progress under Dyche could encourage him to commit his future, at least for the short term.
As the January window looms, Branthwaite’s name will be one to watch. Everton may not want to sell, but the Premier League elite rarely take no for an answer when it comes to securing England’s best young talents.
