Everton’s summer is going to be an exhausting one, riddled with transfer rumours that will not favour them.
And realistically, that is fair.
The dire financial situation of the club is well-documented, and so mass outgoings are expected with little incomings set to offset them.
However, of all those whom the fanbase will be praying sticks around, Jarrad Branthwaite will reign supreme.
Fabrizio Romano delivers Jarrad Branthwaite transfer update
Chatting with The United Stand, the Italian journalist, widely regarded as one of the most reliable transfer reporters in the world, would offer the Red Devils-related channel some much-needed positive reports on their club.
Touching on almost every position of interest, Evertonians will have taken a particular notice in the centre-backs, given how Branthwaite’s Manchester United transfer links have only intensified in recent weeks.
And whilst he reaffirmed those reports, he also detailed a very interesting hurdle that suggests that the Toffees will not be desperate to offload the 21-year-old at the first opportunity.
Romano claimed, just yesterday: ‘Branthwaite remains one of the names on the list for sure, in that case they are waiting to understand the price tag from Everton. Everton have still not communicated to the player or the agent how much they want to let him go in the summer transfer window.
‘So, Manchester United are waiting on that one, that is already clear.’
Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite should listen to Conor Coady
Very quickly, Branthwaite has proven himself to be one of Everton’s best defenders of the 21st century.
Given this is his first year playing regularly in the Premier League, that might seem like a lofty claim, but there really are few who could match his power, pace and comfort on the ball at the elite level.
He has instantly taken to the top flight as if he has always been there, and unsurprisingly is being linked to a whole host of other clubs including United.
However, when seeking to praise the defender, Conor Coady warned Branthwaite about his next move, and why he might benefit from sticking around Goodison Park for a little while longer.
He noted: ‘I don’t think it’s a waste if you do another year, I don’t if I am being completely honest. Everton fans absolutely love you, they adore you, you are going to play every minute of every game, Sean Dyche loves ya.’
Were he to give Everton one more year of his excellence, that love would certainly only grow before finally sanctioning his exit, surely to a side already at the top of the sport.