Jarrad Branthwaite set for long-term Everton stay amid transfer speculation
The 21-year-old is prepared to commit his future to the Toffees, who are hoping to keep the England under-21 star at the club with a new deal, the newspaper claimed online (4 October).
Manchester United and PSV Eindhoven, the latter of which had the kid on loan last season, have both kept an eye on Branthwaite.
For the time being, Everton supporters will be content to maintain one of their best players dedicated to the team and ready to compete for the starting position. Branthwaite has proven to be incredibly valuable for just £1 million, and his season-long loan to PSV last year demonstrated his ability to perform consistently at the highest level.
This form is what he is carrying into the new season. Branthwaite, who has the second-most tackles in the team (8) and is two tackles behind Amadou Onana, has the joint-highest tackle success rate at the club this season (100%) according to FBRef, demonstrating his substantial contribution to the defense.
A fresh agreement would be good for the Toffees financially as well. Branthwaite’s salary would presumably increase significantly under his new deal, but there may be substantial long-term gain.
Everton might demand a hefty sum for the former Carlisle United player and make a sizeable profit if Manchester United and other clubs were sniffing around for him.
The Red Devils could make a move for the center-back as early as January, according to The Mail (3 October), but if Branthwaite signs a new contract before then, it’s probable that interest won’t materialize until at least the summer.
His performance so far this year has been good, therefore the Goodison Park supporters could be hesitant to let go of such a well-regarded young talent. However, Everton’s financial difficulties might compel them to consider a transfer, so a contract extension will safeguard their priceless asset.
In other Everton news, an injury expert has responded after one of the team’s players had his sutures pop out, causing him to miss a number of matches.
