Everton must sign Jacob Greaves as Jarrad Branthwaite replacement at Goodison Park
Everton must ensure one of their first matters of business this summer is to sign Jacob Greaves from Hull City as the transfer window fast approaches.
The centre-back has been an exemplary defender in the Championship this season, missing just three league matches as the Tigers push to finish in the playoff spots.
Greaves has managed to keep 10 clean sheets in a hectic second division, helping his side to victories against Leicester City and Southampton, as well as picking points off Leeds United, Coventry City and West Brom.
At just 23 years of age, Greaves is a natural-born leader and has worn Hull’s captain’s armband on several occasions this season, which could be a key aspect of his game if he were to come to Goodison Park.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, having been named in the EFL Championship Team of the Season, lining up alongside Leeds’ Ethan Ampadu in defence. [BBC Sport]
According to The Mirror [5 March], the Toffees are targeting a move for the Championship centre-back ahead of the summer transfer window, with Sean Dyche hoping to bolster his defensive options.
The backline situation in Merseyside is already a worrying one, with Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski’s only replacements being Michael Keane and Ben Godfrey.
Mason Holgate, who is currently out on loan with Sheffield United, could also be an option next season but his performances at Bramall Lane have convinced no one he can do a job in a Toffees shirt next season.
Everton must sign Jacob Greaves ahead of the 2024/25 campaign
Everton’s centre-back woes could worsen even more before the next season begins, with Branthwaite heavily linked with a Goodison Park exit this summer.
According to TEAMtalk [18 April], with Manchester United, Tottenham and Bayern Munich circling, the Toffees are using Chelsea’s £75million signing of Wesley Fofana as a reference point.
There are two sides of Branthwaite’s potential sale to consider. While losing the defender would be a huge loss at Goodison Park, the supposed fee would allow Everton to purchase Greaves and still ease their PSR issues.
In other Leeds United news, a teenage sensation is now set to snub Manchester United in order to move to Elland Road.
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