Fabrizio Romano shares Manchester United update on pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite
Jarrad Branthwaite is not a priority for Manchester United after the Everton youngster was linked with a move away from Goodison Park, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Daily Mail had claimed (8 February) that the 20-year-old centre-half was being scouted by Liverpool, United and Roma.
Rik Elfrink, who is a journalist for Eindhovens Dagblad, has also suggested (via Twitter, 8 February) that Branthwaite is now open to extending his stay at the PSV Eindhoven.
Romano has reported that Erik ten Hag’s side have “different priorities” after being linked with a move for the 20-year-old.
“I’ve been asked by fans about links with Everton youngster Jarrard Branthwaite, but I’m not aware of this at this stage,” said the Guardian journalist (Caughtoffside Substack, 9 February).
“He’s doing great but Manchester United have different priorities, then scouts of top clubs are always around Europe and so it’s normal to have this kind of link.”
First team chances
Branthwaite has a good chance of making an impact for the Toffees in the future. He’s still extremely young and has begun to see more game time for PSV. Getting consistent minutes under his belt was always the goal and he will return a much-improved player.
He certainly looks like a defender who could suit Sean Dyche’s style of play. He’s tall, physical and good with the ball at his feet. The centre of defence is an integral part of the former Burnley man’s system and having a long-term asset such as Branthwaite could be vital.
Conor Coady and James Tarkowski have both been superb since arriving at the club but they will need some adequate competition in the coming years. It will be interesting to see how Everton handle the 20-year-old’s situation with his contract running until the summer of 2025.
Although Manchester United aren’t interested at present, it would not be a surprise to see other clubs begin to circle for the young defender.