Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite
Credit: Imago
Parth Jhaveri
Fri 21 March 2025 11:10, UK
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite could be on the verge of leaving Everton as the Toffees have been linked with a centre-back in the summer transfer window.
Branthwaite has been linked with a move away since last summer with Manchester United being the most interested party.
The Englishman has shown tremendous promise and put in extremely impressive performances in the Toffees’ backline.
Everton managed to keep hold of Branthwaite last summer but doing so again may prove tricky and it’s possible they are now preparing for his exit after transfer news that emerged on Thursday.
Jarrad Branthwaite has been Everton’s best defender for the last couple of seasons (Credit: Imago)
Federico Gatti could be Branthwaite replacement at Everton
Everton have been linked with Juventus defender Federico Gatti in a potential sign they are accepting Branthwaite could be on his way.
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According to Tuttojuve (20 March), five-cap Italy international Gatti is on the radar of Everton as David Moyes eyes defensive reinforcements in the summer.
In the event of Braithwaite’s departure, Everton will need to sign at least one new centre-back to ensure they have the depth at the centre of defence.
The former Carlisle defender’s stock has skyrocketed in the last two seasons and Everton will know they can make big money if he does seek pastures news.
Everton contracts expiring at the end of 2024-25
Abdoulaye Doucoure
Seamus Coleman
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Idrissa Gueye
Michael Keane
Ashley Young
Joao Virginia
Asmir Begovic
Source – Transfermarkt
Gatti’s playing style resembles Branthwaite’s and could make an ideal replacement if Branthwaite does move on.
The 26-year-old has attracted interest from Everton and Newcastle United as his contract discussions have been halted until the end of the season, prompting him to potentially explore other options.
Branthwaite is comfortable on the ball and is a reliable passer of the ball. Gatti matches those attributes. He has a pass completion rate of 93.4%, indicating that he isn’t shy about moving the ball around and helping the team build from the back.
Braithwaite’s potential departure could open up doors for Gatti to arrive at Everton, though the Toffees’ ambitious new owners TFG will likely want to do what they can to retain Branthwaite.
Michael Keane could also depart in the summer(Credit: Imago)
Everton could undergo wholesale changes in defence
Branthwaite is not the only defender who could leave the Toffees at the end of the season. Along with the 22-year-old potentially being sold, the contracts of Seamus Coleman, Ashley Young and Michael Keane are about to expire.
While Coleman has earned the right to decide about his future, whether he wants to continue or hang up his boots, Keane could be shown the exit door given his up-and-down form during his time at Goodison Park.
Keane has slipped down the pecking order and is no longer a reliable defence option, while veteran full-back Young will hit 40 this summer.
Everton will have to put a significant amount of money to sign defenders if the aforementioned names leave the club.
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