Everton are interested in Toulouse centre-back Charlie Cresswell and first-team defender Jarrad Branthwaite could actually help secure a deal.
David Moyes is going into the January window in desperate need of goals following a dismal start to the season from his strikers.
However, defensive additions could also be on the radar for Everton given some of the injury issues already experienced on Merseyside.
Everton News understands that Everton are scouting Cresswell ahead of the January transfer window as a potential addition.
Michael Keane and James Tarkowski have formed a strong partnership in the absence of Branthwaite as he recovers from his recent surgery.
But it is the absent Branthwaite who could actually give Everton a big advantage in adding another centre-back to the squad in January.
Everton v AS Roma - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Jarrad Branthwaite’s Charlie Cresswell connection could favour Everton
It has been suggested that Toulouse are valuing Cresswell at £26.5m as Everton continue to send their scouts to watch him in action.
Branthwaite has previously played alongside Cresswell in England’s youth set-up, with the former Leeds United defender singing Branthwaite’s praises.
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Back in 2023, Cresswell spoke incredibly highly of Branthwaite who could become his future defensive partner.
“This is Jarrad’s first camp with us [after injury ruled him out],” said Cresswell.
He’s a really nice guy and a really good player. I’ve known him since I was younger as we were in the U19s together. A big, commanding and strong centre half.”
Branthwaite wants to stay at Everton despite continual reports linking him with a potential move away to Manchester United.
And having Branthwaite at the Hill Dickinson Stadium could provide Cresswell with an opportunity to reunite with his old England teammate.
Clearly, Cresswell thinks a lot of Branthwaite as a person as well as a defender, which could prove a real advantage for Everton come January.
Cresswell could be the perfect partner for Branthwaite
Around the time of that interview, Branthwaite and Cresswell played regularly at the back for England U21s.
In England U21’s Euros against Germany, the two centre-backs held out Germany as the Three Lions secured a 2-0 victory.
Charlie Cresswell 25/25 Total
Appearances 11
Minutes 990
Goals 3
Assists 1
Adding another physical powerhouse alongside a fit Branthwaite could be an exciting prospect on Merseyside.
Everton do hold some other potential advantages when it comes to possible negotiations with the player.
Moyes knows Cresswell’s family very well having previously signed his father, Richard, during his time at Preston North End.
It is not just Moyes who will know Cresswell, with Everton CEO Angus Kinnear also having worked at Elland Road during the defender’s stint at the club.
An opportunity could be there for Everton in January.