Relegation battle over Champions League? Man Utd target closes in on deal
Tom Weber
- 28 Sept 2023 16:39 BST
- 3 min read
Highly-rated Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is closing in on a new deal despite Manchester United's interest, according to a report.
The 21-year-old centre-back impressed on loan at PSV in the Eredivisie last season and has continued to catch the eye at Everton despite the Toffees' struggles.
Liverpool wanted the defender in January, but a move didn't materialise when it became clear that dealing with their city rivals would be exceptionally tough. FootballTransfers revealed in August that Man Utd are also keen, but Everton's stance is very clear.
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Sean Dyche and company have no intention of letting the youngster leave and they are now making serious progress on tying him down to a new deal.
Talks opened
That is at least what The Athletic is saying. The report claims that Everton have opened talks with Branthwaite over a contract extension in a bid to ward off interest in his services.
The Merseyside club want to bring the youngster's wages in line with the rest of the first team as there are suggestions that he has the potential to become something of the next John Stones.
It will be interesting to see this story develop and whether or not the ongoing controversy regarding 777 Partners' potential takeover will influence Everton's ability to offer Branthwaite improved terms.
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The Toffees could be set for a big January, but they could just as well be hamstrung by the takeover - even if it goes through. 777 have a very poor reputation as club owners and are notorious for dodgy dealings.
Branthwaite's current deal expires in 2025, so if Everton were to fail to agree terms with him on a new contract, they could be forced into selling him in January or the summer to avoid losing for nothing the following season and in a bid to raise funds.
