Everton agreement with Jarrad Branthwaite at final stages - Fabrizio Romano

Jarrad Branthwaite is close to signing a new contract at Everton, with the deal now in the final stages after Sean Dyche shared they had been in talks for "a while", according to Fabrizio Romano.

The well-respected journalist shared via his Twitter account on 5 October that the 21-year-old will extend his stay at Goodison Park beyond the 2025 expiration date in his current deal.

This will be a boost to Everton, with recent reports suggesting Manchester United could be among clubs considering a move for Branthwaite after his impressive displays under Dyche so far this season.

A boost to all around the club

This news should lift moods around Everton, with concerns growing around the possible 777 Partners takeover, as well as the performances of the team in the Premier League, with a bit of good news providing much-needed respite.

Branthwaite spent last season playing on loan in the Dutch Eredivisie with PSV, where he contributed heavily to their Dutch Cup victory, putting his name on the tongues of many scouts and firing into the first-team picture at Goodison Park.

His performances since replacing Michael Keane in Dyche's side following the 4-0 defeat to Aston Villa have stood out, with his ability and experience well beyond his years, proving to be a reliable and impressive partner to stalwart James Tarkowski.

The defender will now be looking to push on and earn his team valuable points as they continue their push to compete strongly in the Premier League and keep the Toffees out of trouble.

In other Everton news, a senior trio are set to miss the clash with Bournemouth.