Everton’s summer is poised to be one of great mystery, as nobody seems to know what will actually happen on the transfer front.
After all, whilst some rumours suggest a fire sale of their prized assets could be on the cards, others have emerged to argue that suggestion.
Naturally, with PSR to once again contend with, some departures might have to be sanctioned, but Kevin Thelwell has promised open communication to Evertonians on their long-term plans.
It would be easy to assume that the transfer of Jarrad Branthwaite would mark the easiest way to facilitate a more sustainable and stable long-term future, however, how he feels on the matter should also be considered.
Jarrad Branthwaite’s transfer stance revealed
The latest on his future comes courtesy of The Independent, who actually provide an update on a whole host of Everton’s assets who could well depart this summer.
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s contract situation leaving his future in doubt, as well as the interest mounting for Branthwaite and Amadou Onana, Evertonians have every right to be apprehensive ahead of this summer.
However, in the space of just one day, we have seen great strides made, with the former having been offered a new deal, and their 21-year-old centre-back’s stance on his future revealed.
The foremost report reads: ‘Everton have put a huge price on Jarrad Branthwaite as they would want a fee that would make him one of the most expensive centre-backs in the world to consider selling him.
‘The Merseyside club do not want to lose the 21-year-old, who is happy to remain at Goodison Park, and are also in talks with Dominic Calvert-Lewin with a new deal as they aim to keep the cornerstones of Sean Dyche’s team.
‘But Branthwaite’s swift rise has earned him admirers, with Manchester United reportedly keen on a deal for the defender, who has made Gareth Southgate’s 33-man training group and could be included in the England squad for Euro 2024.’
Everton need to keep ahold of Jarrad Branthwaite
Of all these aforementioned star players at Sean Dyche’s disposal, few are as important to the way he plays as Branthwaite.
After all, the young Englishman, who is currently training with the national senior squad ahead of the European Championships this summer, has built a strong partnership with James Tarkowski as part of a record-breaking backline for Everton.
Sitting just in front of Jordan Pickford, this trio helped keep the fourth-best defence in the Premier League whilst also boasting the second-most clean sheets.
With youth, physicality, technical quality and confidence all on his side, the future is exceedingly bright for Branthwaite. Hopefully, he can fulfil at least a little bit more of that potential on Merseyside.