Jarrad Branthwaite & John Stones
(Credit: Imago)
Alex Charlton
Tue 24 June 2025 10:30, UK
Everton supporters have every right to feel excited about the summer ahead as they plan to build a new squad.
There is a different feel around the North West, with talk of a substantial rebuild and a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
With the Friedkin Group ready for a new era, Everton want marquee signings, and John Stones could be one of them.
However, a move for the former Toffee could spell the end for one of England’s brightest prospects, Jarrad Branthwaite.
John Stones Everton
Stones was an Everton player for three and a half years (Credit: Imago)
Everton keen on Stones, while Branthwaite exit mooted
With wages considered a stumbling block, Bryan King told Goodison News that Stones will decide if he wants to take a pay cut.
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The centre-back has found opportunities sparse over recent seasons at Manchester City, but injuries have played a significant role in that.
Like Everton, City are undergoing a major overhaul themselves, and Stones has been touted with the exit door under Pep Guardiola.
Given his injury record and age, it would be unsurprising if the Citizens decided to part ways with the 31-year-old this summer.
A move for Stones could hinge on the future of Branthwaite, who has admirers in the Premier League.
Tottenham are said to be seriously interested in Branthwaite, while Manchester United have also had previous interest.
The 22-year-old has two years remaining on his current deal, but the Toffees have the option to extend a further year.
Everton have opened talks over a new contract for Branthwaite, although nothing has been agreed yet.
Jarrad Branthwaite's Everton stats in the Premier League.
Branthwaite’s stats in the league last season (Credit: Imago)
Stones arrival could signal Branthwaite exit
If Stones does make a sensational return to Everton, then that could reluctantly spell the end for Branthwaite’s time on Merseyside.
Stones currently earns an estimated £250,000 per week in wages, although he could take a hit to return to the Toffees.
Given that high figure, it would be unfathomable for the North West outfit to pay his wages and Branthwaite’s.
Yes, the Merseysiders have money to spend this window, but it would make further spending difficult if they had two steep salaries in the heart of their defence.
Furthermore, the sale of Branthwaite would further drive their transfer ambitions, seeing as an £80million price tag has been mooted.
Of course, many things must happen for this scenario to play out, but all it takes is one move to trigger a domino effect.
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