In a recent report, The Mail+ claimed that Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is on the radar of Manchester United. It has been stated that the Red Devils are weighing up a move to sign the English talent from the Toffees during this summer transfer window.
Branthwaite’s Impressive Loan Spell In Dutch Football
Branthwaite had a fruitful loan spell at PSV Eindhoven last season when he put in a string of solid displays at the heart of their defence. The Carlisle-born talent made 37 appearances for the Dutch club in the previous campaign, scoring four goals and earning a couple of assists across all competitions.
The 21-year-old was a reliable performer when defending inside his half as he averaged 0.9 tackles, 1.3 interceptions and 3.5 clearances per 90 minutes in the Dutch Eredivisie. He has even been tidy with his ball distribution after making 87.2% of his attempted passes in the Dutch top tier (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Merseyside club is set to run out in the summer of 2025. Thus, Everton are in no immediate need to cut Branthwaite loose in this off-season.
Can Everton Boss Sean Dyche Afford To Lose Branthwaite?
Branthwaite is a good tackler of the ball and can read the danger well to secure the ball back for his side inside his half. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when required and is proficient at playing his way out from the back.
Standing at 1.95m, the English talent can be a dominant presence in the air as well. Hence, he could play a valuable role in Everton boss Sean Dyche’s match-day squad next season.
At 21, Branthwaite has the potential to become a world-class centre-half someday. Thus, the Toffees simply cannot afford to lose him before the start of the new season. He has what it takes to become a regular starter at Goodison Park and could be a real asset for the Merseyside club in the coming years.
All in all, Dyche would be better off keeping hold of Branthwaite for the long run as he could help the Toffees challenge for a European spot in the Premier League in the not-too-distant future.
