Liverpool will reportedly look to beat Manchester United to the signature of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer with an offer of around £70 million.
According to a report by The Sun, Jarrad Branthwaite is the subject of interest from Liverpool. The Everton defender is also a target for Manchester United. However, the Reds want to steal a march on their bitter rivals by offering a package worth £70 million to sign the 22-year-old centre-back from their fellow Merseyside outfit in the summer transfer window.
Jarrad Branthwaite and his rise at Everton
Jarrad Branthwaite has seen his stock soar since returning from a successful loan spell with PSV Eindhoven. The Englishman has established himself as one of the best young defenders in the Premier League in the last 12 months, especially during his exploits in the second half of the 2023/24 season.
The 22-year-old has turned out over 50 times thus far for Everton while chipping in with four goals and one assist. Branthwaite’s progress at the Merseyside club last season helped him break into his national side, making his senior bow for England earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Jarrad Branthwaite’s exploits have not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe. However, as we approach the final days of the summer transfer window, the battle for the England international’s signature boils down to Manchester United and Liverpool.
What next?
Manchester United hold a long-standing interest in Jarrad Branthwaite. However, the Red Devils will unlikely pursue the Englishman in the final week of the summer transfer window after landing Matthijs de Ligt, who has become the second centre-back to arrive at Old Trafford. In addition, Manchester United might face a hijack from their bitter rivals this summer.
Liverpool can do with a player of Jarrad Branthwaite’s quality. The Reds have lost Joel Matip as a free agent this summer, while Joe Gomez faces an uncertain future at Anfield. In addition, Virgil van Dijk is on the wrong side of 30. So, the Everton defender has emerged as a viable target, with Liverpool preparing a package worth £70 million to sign the young centre-back.
The package will include a base fee worth £63 million and £7 million in add-ons. In addition, Liverpool should have no qualms about hiking Jarrad Branthwaite’s £60,000-a-week wages. It will be interesting to see if the Reds beat Manchester United to the 22-year-old English defender’s signature.
