Conor Coady and Jarrad Branthwaite Everton future intertwined as transfer news drops
The futures of Conor Coady and Jarrad Branthwaite at Everton could be intertwined as the club decide on what to do with them in the transfer window.
The Toffees have a £4.5m option to sign Coady permanently after his season-long loan in the 2022/23 season, while youngster Branthwaite spent the season on loan at PSV Eindhoven and shone to help them win two cup trophies.
But now he is set to return to Goodison Park with a new contract expected to be offered, and according to the Liverpool Echo (31 May) there may only be room for one of the defenders at Everton next season with some Premier League interest in Coady.
“Coady’s future may depend on what happens with other centre backs at the club,” they wrote.
“It is one of few areas where there is genuine depth even with Mina’s departure and over what will probably be a frugal summer the fee could be useful elsewhere. But few players will represent better value for money this summer.
“The future of Jarrad Brainthwaite from an excellent loan spell at PSV Eindhoven could be crucial. He will hope for first team opportunities but is also being courted by several clubs and could command a decent fee that could be used to address club finances or help fund signings elsewhere.
“If Branthwaite is to get a chance under Dyche it is harder to see Coady being retained.”
Room for both
With Yerry Mina’s exit from the club already confirmed and Branthwaite expected to return, we’re already in the same position when it comes to depth at centre-back for next season.
Coady seems like he wants to stick around, and when our options still include Michael Keane then there is no way that he should be allowed to leave.
Then there is Mason Holgate too who is clearly not good enough for the Premier League at this point and if Sean Dyche wants us to have a back four next season then our best four options most definitely include Coady.
If we want to improve our league position and performances next season then Coady simply has to be part of the squad, and Branthwaite’s contribution in the Eredivisie prove he is ready to come in and make an impact.
Should Everton only have one of Coady or Branthwaite at the club for the 2023/24 season then it would represent a monumental failure in the transfer window yet again.