Everton: Bayern Munich join Jarrad Branthwaite race as one hurdle remains for exit

Bayern Munich are understood to have joined the race for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

The 23-year-old has been consistently linked with a Hill Dickinson Stadium exit in recent years.

It appears as though interest is going to return this summer, and the Blues may face a battle to keep hold of the former Carlisle man.

Branthwaite signed a new five-year contract in July 2025, that committed his future to the Toffees until 2030.

However, the 35-time German champions may test David Moyes' resolve with an offer.

That is if one hurdle is cleared that makes a deal possible for the Bavarian outfit.

What is the hurdle for Bayern Munich's pursuit of Jarrad Branthwaite?

Bayern are not the only side that want Branthwaite, as two Premier League clubs are also eyeing him.

The Daily Mail reported on 12 June that Manchester City and Manchester United are also closely monitoring the defender.

It states that moves from all three clubs would depend on a departure happening first, which is the obstacle that could prevent a deal.

The Blues would demand around £70million, it is understood, to let the England international leave.

Why Everton cannot sell Branthwaite this summer

Losing Branthwaite would send all the wrong signals for Blues supporters and their rival clubs.

They need to do everything that they can to keep the defender around, as he is a key part of Moyes' plans.

Perhaps more importantly, selling him would be a sign of weakness, an admission that the L3 outfit can't match his ambitions.

Keeping him would show that they are serious about challenging for Europe, and they need to build around him to do that.

Branthwaite only featured 10 times last season, with injuries playing havoc on his campaign, but once he is back fit, he will be one of the first names of the teamsheet.

Allowing him to leave would send the wrong message, and would be a sign that the Toffees are nowhere near the level that they want to be, that simply cannot happen.

The Friedkin Group must stand firm, make their stance clear that the player is not for sale at any price and stick to it, as they have all the leverage with his contract.