Everton’s summer may have been a successful one thus far, but that could all change with one big sale.
After all, the departure of a Jordan Pickford or a Jarrad Branthwaite type figure would mark a hammer blow for Sean Dyche, who relies heavily on these two especially to underpin his rock-solid defence.
Last campaign, only three sides in the Premier League conceded less than the Toffees.
And yet, there seems to be this odd fascination with the latter of the duo, consistently linking him with moves away.
Manchester United’s interest in Branthwaite has been well-documented, whilst rumours have persisted suggesting others are keeping an eye out.
Fabrizio Romano update hints that Everton could be safe
As of yet, there has been no movement though.
Just one hugely insulting bid from the Red Devils is all that the Toffees have received as far as we are aware, which makes for a positive reading for Evertonians.
And, the latest update on Erik ten Hag’s transfer plans for the summer, dropped by journalist Fabrizio Romano, should add further fuel to that fire.
He took to X earlier today to write: ‘Manchester United have green light from both Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt to join the club.
‘Both players have spoken to Erik ten Hag with Man United now ready to advance on club side in the coming days. It’s all approved on salary/commission also for Zirkzee.’
Not only will this see United sign a new starting centre-back, surely to partner Lisandro Martinez, but it also sees a monumental chunk of their budget reduced through this double deal.
There is now surely no way that they could stump up the £75m price tag that has been touted.
Keeping Jarrad Branthwaite would be huge for Everton
It might be somewhat cliche, but keeping Branthwaite this summer would effectively be like a new signing for Everton come next season. Or, it would at least be celebrated as such.
After all, his importance to this squad is impossible to quantify, as even his stunning defensive figures don’t quite do justice to his brilliance.
It isn’t an overstatement to suggest that he is the best prospect that Everton have had for decades, and has all the traits needed to fly to the very top of world football in the coming years.
He is tall, fast, strong, resilient, good in the air yet competent with his feet…
Despite his former coach Steven Presley recently claiming that Sean Dyche was misusing Branthwaite for Everton, it should be good when he starts using him “properly”.
After all, how much better can he possibly get? Hopefully, Everton keep him long enough to find out for themselves.
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