Everton are prepared to reject any January transfer offers for defensive star Jarrad Branthwaite as arch rivals Liverpool reportedly consider a bid.
Branthwaite missed the start of the 2024/25 Premier League season, after undergoing groin surgery, but he returned for their first EPL win of the campaign at home to Crystal Palace last weekend.
Manchester United were rumoured to be considering the 22-year-old as an option, before signing Matthijs de Ligt, with Liverpool linked with a controversial offer.
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Arne Slot is keen to bolster his back line, following the exit of Joel Matip, and uncertainty over Virgil van Dijk's long-term plans at Anfield.
As per report from the Liverpool Echo, Everton are ready for renewed interest in Branthwaite in January and next summer, but they are confident of retaining him.
The incoming club takeover, led by The Friedkin Group, will offer more stability for Everton as they look to keep a star asset away from the other side of Stanley Park.
Jarrad Branthwaite Everton contract, transfer value
Branthwaite joined Everton from EFL League Two side Carlisle United in 2020 and his stock has rocketed since.
His displays alongside James Tarkowski at the back end of the 2023/24 campaign saw Everton avoid relegation and he narrowly missed out on a spot in England's UEFA Euro 2024 squad after a superb run of form.
United and Liverpool have kept a watchful eye on his progress but he will not come cheap, with his contract at Goodison Park running until 2027.
United are rumoured to have seen two summer offers rejected by the Toffees with their highest bid coming in at £45m ($59m).
Everton are pushing for closer to £70m ($92m) to consider a sale which would require a major shift at Anfield or Old Trafford.
