Everton, whether they like it or not, will likely have to succumb to a major sale this summer. Their torrid financial position simply demands it.
So whether that be Amadou Onana, who Barcelona are after, or Jarrad Branthwaite, who is subject to a Manchester United bid, it is expected that at least one will leave.
A necessary evil for Farhad Moshiri to avoid further PSR sanctions, it marks a searing indictment of the way in which this club has been run of late.
Fortunately, they seemingly already have one replacement lined up for their starring central defender.
Everton still want Hull City’s Jacob Greaves
The latest comes courtesy of Hull Live, who write: ‘Everton are continuing to keep tabs on Hull City star Jacob Greaves as the Toffees consider a move for the 23-year-old central defender as a possible replacement for Jarrad Branthwaite.
‘Reports emerged at the back end of the week that Manchester United had agreed personal terms with the talented England defender, though their valuation is thought to be some way away from Everton’s value.
‘It’s expected United will conclude a deal this summer and that will leave the Blues with a gap in their backline, and one Sean Dyche believes could be filled by Greaves, who was named in the Championship’s Team of the Season for a terrific campaign with City.
‘The Tigers do not want to sell Greaves and would like the Hull-born ace to stay for one more campaign and help lead Tim Walter’s side to promotion to the Premier League, but understand the players’ desire to play in the top flight.
‘City would only consider selling Greaves if he makes clear his desire to test himself in the Premier League, and a significant bid was received, which would ease the club’s Financial Fair Play concerns and help Walter’s plans to stamp his authority on his squad ahead of the new campaign.’
Greaves has a reported £20m price tag.
Jacob Greaves is shades of Jarrad Branthwaite
Although the two are contrasting, and have featured in teams playing very different systems, it is hard not to draw comparisons between two young left-footed English central defenders who are already starring for the first-team.
Especially given both were deservedly recognised by their respective leagues, with Greaves being put in the Championship Team of the Season as aforementioned, and Branthwaite having been nominated for the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season award.
And, when comparing the two’s statistics, it is clear to see why they are so revered.
The former Carlisle United colossus finished the campaign having maintained an 80% pass accuracy alongside 1.9 tackles and 4.5 clearances per game.
For comparison, the Hull-born alternative saw his pass accuracy soar to 89%, with 42% of his long balls hitting the mark. This will entice Sean Dyche.
So too will his 1.8 tackles and 4.3 clearances per game, still willing to do the dirty work.
If Everton are to lose Branthwaite, god forbid, this simply must be the replacement.