Everton have now confirmed Jarrad Branthwaite has inked a new deal to secure his future on Merseyside.
A nervous summer was being suggested by some in the media over Branthwaite’s future, with a lot of interest arriving for the defender.
Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool held an interest in Branthwaite among a number of other Premier League clubs.
David Moyes will be delighted to have the future of Everton’s prized defender sealed at the Hill Dickinson Stadium ahead of the move this summer.
Although it has been a slow start to the transfer window for the Blues, this news will be worth just as much as any new signing to the Everton fans.
Branthwaite modelled the new Everton home kit, which provided a major clue on his future and now it has finally been made official.
Jarrad Branthwaite smiles during Everton vs Manchester City.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Jarrad Branthwaite reacts to new Everton contract
Branthwaite has inked a new five-year deal to take his contractual stay at Everton up until 2030.
Everton are now looking to sign Idrissa Gana Gueye to a new deal and keep the good news rolling for the fans.
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Speaking to the club’s media channels, Branthwaite has shared the key reasoning behind his decision to stay at Everton.
“It’s very exciting for us as a team, as players, to have that going on in the background and obviously to be starting the new season at the new stadium,” he said.
“The ambition was a huge thing.
“The way the manager wants us to go as a team and what he wants us to do for next season and where he wants us to challenge for has had a big impact on the decision. I think you saw towards the end of last season as a team what we can do.
“The manager has been really good, not only for me but for the group. You saw the change in results, the change in mood since he came in. He drives the demands every day to be better.”
A release clause in Branthwaite’s contract was discussed, but no immediate details have emerged from the news on Wednesday morning.
This is a major statement of intent from the Friedkins who are financially backing Moyes and showing they are wanting to take the club forward by keeping their best players.
David Moyes delighted by Branthwaite contract news
Everton are now in talks with Michael Keane over keeping him at the club following his contract running out last month.
The Everton defence has been the strong point of the squad for a number of years now, and keeping Branthwaite at the heart of it is a real positive.
And it is news that has left Moyes over the moon.
“We’re delighted Jarrad has committed his future to us. He is still only 23 and his best years are hopefully still ahead of him,” he said.
“We believe he can have a huge role to play in an exciting new era at the Football Club.”
Of course, the news is hugely positive and fans will hope Branthwaite sees out his deal, but if the time comes and he does look to move, then the Friedkins have put themselves in a really strong position.