Liverpool are on high alert as Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite is reportedly reassessing his future, with several Premier League giants, including Manchester United and Manchester City, keeping close tabs on the 22-year-old.
According to Sky Sports, Branthwaite was the subject of multiple bids from United last summer, with offers reaching up to £45 million plus add-ons.
Everton rejected those advances, determined to keep hold of their defensive star.
However, as the summer transfer window approaches, there are growing indications that Branthwaite could be open to a move.
Liverpool’s interest in Branthwaite gathers pace
While a transfer across Merseyside would be controversial, Liverpool have been keeping a close eye on Branthwaite’s development, with the young centre-back emerging as a potential solution for their defensive rebuild.
The Reds are not alone in their admiration, as Real Madrid – where former Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti is in charge – and reigning Premier League champions Manchester City have also been linked.
Tottenham Hotspur are another club monitoring the situation.
Branthwaite has been one of Everton’s standout performers this season, particularly since David Moyes’ arrival.
However, his strong club form was not enough to earn a place in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad. Instead, Newcastle’s 32-year-old defender Dan Burn was preferred, leaving Branthwaite to link up with the England U21s.
Contract uncertainty and potential move
Branthwaite remains under contract at Goodison Park until 2026, and reports suggest he would be open to signing an improved deal.
However, no formal negotiations have taken place, with the defender focused on finishing the season strongly – especially as Everton prepare to leave Goodison Park and move into their new £800 million Bramley-Moore Dock stadium next season.
Everton manager David Moyes has backed Branthwaite’s quality and questioned Tuchel’s decision to omit him from the England squad.
“If you’re looking at the last six or seven weeks, Jarrad Branthwaite would be up there playing as well as any English centre-half in the country,” Moyes said.
Moyes has urged Branthwaite to prove himself with the England U21s, emphasizing that strong performances at that level could earn him a recall to the senior squad.
Liverpool’s next move
Liverpool’s interest in Branthwaite aligns with their search for defensive reinforcements, particularly with Virgil van Dijk’s future still uncertain and Ibrahima Konaté’s contract situation unresolved.
If Everton are forced to sell this summer, the Reds will face stiff competition from United, City, and Madrid.
However, with Arne Slot set to reshape Liverpool’s squad in his image, Branthwaite could emerge as a top defensive target – provided the Reds are willing to navigate the complexities of signing a player from their fiercest rivals.