Rahul Lakhani
Thu 22 May 2025 7:10, UK
Everton are eager to strengthen their defence for next season, but they may have to deal with a major setback first.
The Toffees will hope for reinforcements in the summer transfer window as they finally complete their move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Everton improved dramatically with David Moyes’ return as manager, but there is plenty of work to do in the squad, with The Friedkin Group set to invest.
However, Jarrad Branthwaite could be on the move this summer, with Chelsea starting to take a keen interest as the transfer window approaches.
The Londoners could be set for a significant jackpot fairly soon, too.
Jarrad Branthwaite has been outstanding (Credit: Imago)
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Chelsea shortlist Branthwaite for transfer
Everton will want to keep their best players this summer, but Champions League hopefuls Chelsea are starting to frequently appear with their interest.
Branthwaite has been outstanding since breaking into the first team, and has established himself as one of the best young centre-backs in the Premier League.
Defender Appearances Tackles won Duels won Pass accuracy
Branthwaite 29 20 112 82.9%
Branthwaite’s stats this season (via FOTMOB)
Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol has now named Branthwaite as one of several signings Chelsea are aiming to make this summer, with the Blues in need of defensive upgrades.
Enzo Maresca’s men are said to be “on course” to bank a massive £200million windfall, too, through possible Champions League qualification and Club World Cup progression.
Everton scout centre-backs as Branthwaite could leave
It would take a huge fee to convince Everton to part ways with their star defender, but Branthwaite leaving cannot yet be ruled out this summer.
The ideal scenario would be Everton reinforcing their defence and building around Branthwaite, but they will need to be proactive with their transfer targets as a centre-back is necessary, even if he stays.
Everton have now scouted Auxerre centre-back Sinaly Diomande, and if Branthwaite does leave, the money from his sale can be reinvested into the squad and help with PSR, too.
They have also looked at Nathan Zeze, who could be set to leave FC Nantes for a bargain fee amid their financial troubles.
If Everton do sell Branthwaite to Chelsea, there will be frustration among the fans, but if they can maximise the fee they receive for him and reinvest it smartly, they can make the situation positive.
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