The season may still be very much in its infancy, but already attention at Everton has already turned to next summer.
After all, it promises to be one of mass revolution, with a new owner set to be in charge and Sean Dyche‘s contract due to expire too.
Huge funds should be pumped in to bring about this overhaul, as they will also move into the Bramley-Moore Dock stadium as well.
However, all of this overwhelming positivity could be swiftly wiped away should Jarrad Branthwaite leave the club that summer, with Fabrizio Romano providing the latest update.
Fabrizio Romano provides Jarrad Branthwaite update
Taking to his Daily Briefing, the revered Italian journalist has provided a much-needed update on Branthwaite’s future on Merseyside amidst interest from a number of top clubs.
Romano responded, when asked if he knows any more about the 22-year-old’s plans to potentially exit: ‘No, to be honest, I’m told at the moment there is nothing concrete.
‘The situation is still under control for Branthwaite and Everton. There are no negotiations or talks taking place with Liverpool.
‘The appreciation from Manchester United remains, but they invested big money on centre-backs.
‘So at the moment, the situation remains quiet. Obviously, Everton expect big clubs to arrive in the summer of 2025, so I would not be surprised if some of these big clubs will return for Branthwaite, but as of today, there are no concrete talks or negotiations.’
Liverpool have been credited with interest in Branthwaite, a move that would not go down well with Evertonians.
Just how important is Jarrad Branthwaite to Everton?
Were they to let him leave, it could only be under extreme circumstances.
After all, this season has perfectly exhibited just how much worse the entire team is when he is not present.
The proof is in their form, where they had failed to win in the Premier League before his return to the starting side.
Not only that, but they had also shipped 14 goals in just four matches too, reduced dramatically with their 2-1 win over Crystal Palace.
Combing back through last season, and once again his importance is perfectly exhibited, as they started that campaign in similarly poor fashion.
There, they lost four and drew one of their opening five matches, with Jarrad Branthwaite forced to watch the first two from the bench. Then, his introduction took a few games of accommodation before they then enjoyed a much stronger run of form.
They finished that campaign with the second-most clean sheets, having conceded the fourth-least goals.
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