Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, with a move away from Goodison Park looking like a “serious possibility” next year, according to GiveMeSport.
On 10 September, the outlet revealed that Everton are standing firm on their £75million valuation of the 22-year-old centre-back, who was also targeted by Manchester United during the summer transfer window.
While United failed to finalise a deal, it appears Real Madrid are now circling the young defender, eyeing a potential swoop for the England international.
It may soon be a situation that Everton manager Sean Dyche has to contend with, as Branthwaite’s future becomes increasingly uncertain.
Should Real Madrid meet Everton’s asking price, Dyche will be forced to prepare for life without one of his most promising players.
Branthwaite, who has yet to feature for the Toffees this season due to a groin injury sustained in pre-season, made quite the impression last year.
His defensive stats speak volumes about his quality, with 116 tackles and interceptions last season, outshining the likes of Virgil van Dijk and William Saliba. Additionally, he made 163 clearances, surpassing van Dijk’s total of 144, according to fbref.
It’s no surprise, then, that Europe’s elite clubs are keen to secure his services. While Everton may be the ideal environment for his continued development, a lucrative offer from a club like Real Madrid could prove too tempting for Branthwaite to turn down.
With the young defender earning £35,000 a week at Everton, a move to the Spanish giants would undoubtedly bring a significant pay rise, and it seems only a matter of time before Branthwaite trades Goodison Park for one of football’s grandest stages.