Everton are looking to secure Jarrad Branthwaite’s future on Merseyside this summer.
David Moyes naturally wants to see improvements made to his squad, but there will also be a real desire to keep hold of his best players.
The 62-year-old kept his end of the bargain last season in keeping Everton in the Premier League for the 2025/26 campaign.
Everton are keen to add a new defender as they prepare for the departure of Michael Keane at the end of his contract.
Moyes’ starting two centre-backs are clear, though, with Branthwaite and James Tarkowski forming a solid partnership.
As the Friedkins look to avoid a summer upset, Everton News has spoken to TBR Football’s Chief Correspondent, Graeme Bailey, to find out the latest in Branthwaite’s contract talks.
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Everton’s contract talks with Jarrad Branthwaite progressing well
Tottenham Hotspur have shown interest in Branthwaite this summer among a number of other Premier League clubs.
Everton are now locked in contract talks with the 22-year-old centre-back in an effort to fend off the interested clubs.
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Speaking to Everton News, Bailey has shared the latest on the positive talks taking place between the two parties.
“Talks have been ongoing for months but are accelerating now and Branthwaite’s camp know what Michael Keane was earning, for example – they also know his market value,” said Bailey.
“There is consideration for a release clause too – but I’m told talks are going well – they are recognising him being an England international and one of the best young centre-backs in Europe.
“Everton sources are confident that he will sign a new deal before the start of the season.”
With clubs circling, Everton slapped an £80m price tag on Branthwaite, with the defender holding an important role in Moyes’ plans.
Branthwaite would like to captain Everton into the new stadium, but the defender is well aware of his own value when it comes to these contract talks.
Branthwaite is using Michael Keane’s salary in Everton talks
Keane is believed to earn £80k-per-week at Everton despite barely playing a role in the starting XI.
This will be the barometer for the talks taking place between the two parties, but the 22-year-old will be fully justified in pushing to match Tarkowski’s salary.
Everton fans desperately want Branthwaite to sign a new contract and put to bed any suggestion of a potential summer exit.
It is also a huge opportunity for the Friedkins to show their ambition this summer by closing the door on a big sale.
Everton have seen a number of big player departures over recent years, and this summer has the opportunity for major growth by improving their squad.