James Tarkowski makes Jarrad Branthwaite transfer admission after £55m Everton exit news
James Tarkowski insists Jarrad Branthwaite is paying zero attention to suggestions that he could be on his way out of Everton this summer.
The young centre-back has enjoyed a superb breakthrough campaign at Goodison Park, leading to inevitable interest over his signature.
Manchester United are one of a number of clubs to have been credited with an interest in Branthwaite, who is under contract until 2027.
According to GiveMeSport [17 May], United could go as high as £55million with their offer for Branthwaite, but nothing more.
Asked what his colleague makes of all the talk, Tarkowski is quoted by the Liverpool Echo [19 May] as saying: “It doesn’t bother him.
“I’ve met his parents briefly once but I imagine the way they brought him up, he’s a very cool, calm, relaxed lad.
“He just enjoys playing football and playing really well. It’s a joy to play next to him.”
Will Everton be forced to sell Jarrad Branthwaite?
It remains unclear exactly what financial position the Toffees will be in by the time the transfer window opens, with that depending on the takeover situation.
What does seem pretty obvious, though, is the club will not be in a position to splash out any cash on new signings, with exits seemingly the bigger priority.
That could see some star names depart, but that does not have to be the case with Branthwaite. The England international in waiting only recently penned fresh terms until 2027.
There is zero chance of the 21-year-old regressing, and his stock is only going to climb higher and higher. It is accepted among fans that he will not be at Goodison forever, but hopefully Everton can get another couple of years out of him yet.
Everton may not be able to truly strengthen their squad, making it all the more important that players such as Branthwaite are retained. The speculation will be intense, but there is an easy decision to be made.
In other Everton news, a competitive auction twist has emerged amid a recent Everton takeover development with Farhad Moshiri looking to sell.
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