Everton: Clubs wait on Goodison chiefs to finalise multi-million Jarrad Branthwaite transfer decision
Clubs interested in signing Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite are reportedly waiting to learn what the Toffees’ asking price is, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Brathwaite has caught the eye with his displays this season despite the struggles of Sean Dyche’s side and has repeatedly been linked with a move away – with Manchester United the most frequently quoted potential destination.
Romano has revealed that the 21-year-old is “appreciated” by the Red Devils and that his name is “on their shortlist”, though the figure Everton decide to request for their young star’s services may affect the level of interest shown in him.
The report [18 April] states: “Jarrad Branthwaite is having a fine season with Everton and we’re again seeing media reports of Manchester United being interested in the talented young centre-back, though other outlets are also suggesting he might be too expensive for them.
“The reality is that it’s still early days on this story – for sure Branthwaite is appreciated by Man United and is one of three or four names on their shortlist, but we’ll have to wait and see if this develops into anything more.
“As for Everton’s price, my understanding is that clubs are still waiting to understand Everton’s decision on the asking price. We have to wait for that. But as previously reported, United have been scouting important centre-backs like Jean-Clair Todibo, Gleison Bremer, Antonio Silva, as well as Branthwaite, and they could make at least one signing in that position this summer, or perhaps two, depending on what will happen with Raphael Varane.”
Everton can’t afford not to sell Jarrad Branthwaite
Everton find themselves in a financial crisis and have already fallen foul of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) twice, leading to two points deductions totalling eight points – leaving Dyche’s men just two points clear of the relegation zone, though they do have a game in hand.
The potential sale of Branthwaite, then, would likely represent a significant profit, given the club paid just £1million to acquire him from Carlisle United in January 2020, when he was only 17 years old.
From a financial perspective, it is imperative that Everton secure the best possible price for their most saleable asset – but should they set the fee too high, they could risk putting potential suitors off.
Romano’s report names Jean-Clair Todibo, Gleison Bremer and Antonio Silva as the other names thought to be on Manchester United’s shortlist – meaning the Red Devils clearly have alternatives they can pursue should they deem Branthwaite too expensive.
In a season where all of Everton’s mistakes appear to be catching up with them, this is a decision they must get right – it could go a long way to getting the club back on the right track.
In other Everton news, Dyche has been predicted to make three changes for the clash with Nottingham Forest amid injury concerns.
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