As per the latest reports from News and Star, Rangers had sent scouts to watch Carlisle United’s youngster Jarrad Branthwaite in action recently. The 17-year-old is seen as a significant talent and Celtic, Manchester City and Arsenal are also monitoring the situation of the defender.
Branthwaite has his contract with the English fourth tier side until 2021. Carlisle United also have an option to extend it for another year. The defender was recently tried out in the defensive midfield position given his on the ball abilities, and maybe that’s why quite a few clubs had sent scouts to watch him last weekend.
The centre back was able to a breakthrough in the team when he was just 16 earlier this year. At 17, he is already competing for first-team places, and he has made eight appearances in all competitions this season. With top clubs like Manchester City vying for his signature, Carlisle United will probably find it hard to keep hold of him.
Rangers are set to compete with Celtic for his signature. Both the Glaswegian giants can be blown away by their Premier League counterparts financially, but Rangers and even Celtic could offer Branthwaite a much faster path towards first-team football.
What can Branthwaite bring to the table?
Even though Branthwaite is 17, he developed quite a bit physically already as he stands in at 6 ft 4 inches. As a result, he is reliable and dominant in the air. However, what makes Branthwaite stand out is his composure on the ball and ability to play out from the back.
Almost all teams now look for defenders who are good on the ball and Branthwaite has those abilities. That is the reason why he was recently utilised in the defensive midfield position. The English youngster also showcases a decent pace, and that helps him in making recovery tackles.
However, the youngster still needs to improve his game and develop himself tactically to thrive at the top level. The raw ingredients seem to be there, and it is no surprise that top clubs are vying for the teenager’s signature.
Should Gerrard go for him?
Rangers should consider moving in for him as he can be a dominant force at the back with more experience. The Gers have also made it in back to back Europa League competition so that could also help them in attracting the player. It remains to be seen what kind of price tag Carlisle United would put up for Branthwaite.
