Despite Manchester United’s interest, highly regarded Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is nearing a new contract, according to a report.
The 21-year-old center back made an impression while on loan at PSV in the Eredivisie last season, and despite the Toffees’ troubles, he has continued to draw attention at Everton.
Liverpool coveted the defender in January, but when it became evident that competing with their city rivals would be extremely difficult, a trade did not materialize.Man Utd is also interested, as FootballTransfers reported in August, but Everton’s position is pretty apparent.
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Sean Dyche and the team are working diligently to lock the young player into a new contract because they have no intention of letting him depart.
Discourse began.
At least, The Athletic is saying that. According to the source, Branthwaite and Everton have begun contract extension negotiations in an effort to quell interest in his services.
The Merseyside club wants to raise the youngster’s pay to parity with the rest of the first team since there are rumors that he could develop into the next John Stones.
It will be interesting to observe how this story develops and whether or not the ongoing issue around the proposed acquisition by 777 Partners would affect Everton’s capacity to provide Branthwaite with better terms.
Even if the takeover goes through, the Toffees may be in for a strong January, but they may also be hindered by it. As club owners, 777 have a very bad reputation and are known for their shady business practices.
Branthwaite’s current contract expires in 2025, thus if Everton and he are unable to reach an agreement on a new one, Everton may be compelled to sell him in the offseason to avoid losing him for nothing the following season and to raise money.
