Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United have received a major setback in their pursuit of Everton mainstay Jarrad Branthwaite.
Jarrad Branthwaite is amongst the best young defenders in the world, and he has made quite a name for himself with his consistent performances for Everton. He is on the wishlist of Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United. All four clubs are considering making a move for him but according to a report from Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, they have received a blow in their pursuit as the English international is open to penning a new deal at the Merseyside club.
Branthwaite has only gone from strength to strength since joining the Toffees back in 2020. The English defender has established himself as a key figure in the team, and he has broken into the national team.
While the youngster was out injured in the initial phase of the season, he has slowly returned to his best and is going to play a key part in Everton’s attempt to remain in the English top flight. They have already taken huge strides towards that post the arrival of David Moyes.
Premier League giants are after Jarrad Branthwaite
Branthwaite still has over two years left on his deal, some of the biggest clubs in England are looking to try and lure him away from Goodison Park. Ruben Amorim is keen on having the 22-year-old at his disposal at Old Trafford as he looks to strengthen his backline.
Liverpool are also huge admirers of the young centre-half as they feel he could be an ideal fit to replace Virgil van Dijk in the long run. But, signing arguably the best player from their arch-rivals is not going to be easy.
Apart from the Reds, Chelsea and Arsenal have also been monitoring him and would love to add him to their squad. The Blues’ project revolves around signing the best young players, and Jarrad Branthwaite certainly fits the bill. Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta wants to strengthen his defensive rotation.
Branthwaite to stay at Everton?
While the biggest English clubs are after his signature, Everton are confident that they can hold onto one of their most valuable assets. The major reason for their optimism comes from the fact that the player is open to signing a new deal extending his stay beyond 2027.
The Englishman is keen on staying at the club for at least one more season, and he is looking forward to playing in their new stadium. He wants to assess how things go under David Moyes and the Friedkin Group. Meanwhile, Everton have informed him that they want to extend his stay, and they are willing to offer him a huge pay rise.
The Toffees have already been looking for £70 million to £80 million for the 22-year-old, and a new deal could further increase the price making him the most expensive defender in Premier League history.
