Liverpool and Manchester United are keen on Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the summer as Everton steps up efforts to keep hold of the defender.
According to Caught Offside, Jarrad Branthwaite is back on the radars of Liverpool and Manchester United ahead of the summer window. The Premier League giants are vying for the impressive defender who may have a price tag in excess of £70 million as Everton are fighting hard to keep hold of the centre-back.
Jarrad Branthwaite has been one of the impressive products of the Everton system, as the centre-back has grown into one of the top defenders in the Premier League. He was instrumental last season as the Toffees survived a relegation battle, and once again, he’s proving his worth this season.
There’s the usual fear for Everton fans about losing their best talents to one of the Premier League giants, and that might prevail with the Branthwaite case. The 22-year-old has proved beyond doubt that he will be a starter for one of the big clubs, as the Toffees are likely to demand a fee of over £70 million.
Liverpool and Manchester United have previously baulked at the asking price, which might have been much higher than the £70 million mentioned in the report. In any case, the Premier League giants are interested in adding the 22-year-old to their squad next summer, as they might also be prepared to pay big to secure his signature.
Manchester United were interested last summer, but failed to land him despite making two bids for the centre-back. The Red Devils are likely to make some defensive changes at the back, and despite reports that Branthwaite might stay at Everton, they will re-enter the conversation once again in the summer.
Everton will fight to keep Jarrad Branthwaite
More than Manchester United’s interest, the Everton fans will be incensed to see Branthwaite join Liverpool. The Toffees defender is reportedly open to signing a new deal. However, the interest from Liverpool will be a source of concern for all those associated with the blue side of Merseyside. Everton are set to fight hard to keep hold of the 22-year-old as they are hoping his £70 million-plus price tag will ward off suitors.
Liverpool are expected to look for a top-draw centre-bac irrespective of whether Virgil van Dijk leaves. In any case, Branthwaite will be the perfect replacement for the Dutchman should he depart, although it’s very difficult to see the Reds convince Everton to sell one of their best players.
