Incoming Everton signing James Tarkowski could spell the end for Jarrad Branthwaite
Everton are reportedly closing in on a deal for Burnley’s James Tarkowski and that could see young defender Jarrad Branthwaite leave the club.
It was revealed [Daily Mail, 2 June] that Frank Lampard and Everton are growing increasingly confident of bringing the 29-year-old to the club.
Tarkowski would bring much-needed experience to the Toffees’ relatively young back-line and would be an excellent signing for Lampard.
However, with news of the England international’s potential incoming could mean Branthwaite leaves Goodison Park.
The 19-year-old signed from Carlisle in January 2020 and was loaned out to Blackburn Rovers in 2021.
Another loan move would not be out of the question this summer with news of Everton’s potential new arrival.
Branthwaite is at an age where he needs to be playing regularly to continue his development.
The young defender has all the attributes to be an excellent option for Lampard in the future but after his red card against Brentford, his inexperience was exposed.
The addition of Tarkowski will give Lampard a vital opportunity to give Branthwaite regular first team football out on loan at a Championship club.
The 19-year-old only featured six times for Everton last season and if that is replicated this season he will go backwards in terms of his development.
Branthwaite is contracted to Everton until 2025 and could prove to be a long-term asset for the Toffees but it is crucial that he is given the chance to gain further first-team experience.
In other Everton news, a £170million development looks like it will make the Toffees wait in the pursuit of a key target.
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