Everton look resigned to losing one of their stars this summer amid interest from Chelsea and other Premier League clubs.
Everton are preparing for the potential exit of Jarrad Branthwaite by keeping an eye on Hull City’s Jacob Greaves, according to the Daily Mirror.
The same outlet claims that both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur admire Branthwaite, while the Daily Mail reported in January that Chelsea were interested in a summer move for the central defender.
He has been a key player for the Toffees this season, making 30 appearances in all competitions.
Alan Shearer is now backing Branthwaite to win a senior England call-up.
Everton resigned to losing Jarrad Branthwaite
Everton very well could lose Branthwaite at the end of the season, which they seem to have accepted, and it is no surprise given the way he has performed this term.
For example, according to WhoScored, the Englishman is making 1.7 interceptions per game, which is the second-highest average in Sean Dyche’s squad.
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Branthwaite is also winning 2.6 aerial duels per game, the third-highest average among his team-mates.
The above are not bad numbers for a player who is likely to get much better given that he is still just 21 years of age.
When you look at Chelsea’s squad, on paper, they look fine in central defence. However, constant injuries to Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana — and bad ones — changes the complexion a bit. Thiago Silva is also out of contract at the end of the season and it does not look like the Brazilian will be handed a new one.
Therefore, it could make sense bringing in Branthwaite. However, if Silva is going, it may be more ideal to sign a centre-half with more experience, while Chelsea also face having to battle United and Tottenham if they want the Everton star’s signature this summer.
Whatever the case, it does look like that there is a good chance of Branthwaite leaving Goodison Park.
