Everton fans will now be patiently awaiting this summer’s conclusion, as it will mean that those stars who remain are there to stay.
Having already invested wisely in three new signings, instead, the window has still been dominated by who might instead leave, with Jarrad Branthwaite, Amadou Onana and Dominic Calvert-Lewin the three most likely departures.
However, despite the former having been relentlessly pursued above all others, this latest update has at least provided some respite, and a light at the end of the tunnel for Evertonians sick of seeing their star man constantly linked with a move away.
Dharmesh Sheth provides Jarrad Branthwaite update
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth sought to provide the latest update on Branthwaite’s Everton future.
Whilst it remains murky, and at times it has not looked good for their prospects of retaining such a talent, thus far they are standing firm.
Manchester United have twice tried with bids, but been thwarted and cited a £75m price tag on both occasions.
They must pay up or find a new player, and that is what Sheth has eluded to: ‘The Branthwaite situation is in the air for United. They are still interested, but not at the price that Everton have quoted. Furthermore, it appears now that Everton do not need to sell, and they don’t want to sell.
‘If Branthwaite was to leave, you would think now it would be on Everton’s terms and they don’t need to negotiate on that price.’
Previously, it was reported that Everton had to sell Branthwaite for PSR reasons. That now no longer seems to be the case.
Why would Jarrad Branthwaite leave Everton?
Although this comes from the perspective of an Everton-centric outlet, it is questionable why the 22-year-old would want to trade Goodison Park for Old Trafford.
Admittedly, the Red Devils are a far bigger club than the Toffees, but the track record of players and managers who have made that same switch is hardly sparkling.
Romelu Lukaku was one of the Premier League’s best strikers when he made that move. Now his career is in limbo. David Moyes, again a revered figure in the division. His career was curtailed by the club. Even Marouane Fellaini was never as effective in Manchester as he was on Merseyside.
Wayne Rooney is the only real export who has gone on to fulfil his potential after trading the Toffees for Manchester United, and with the talent he had, he would have done that anywhere.
Despite reports suggesting Branthwaite is keen to leave Everton, sticking around for another year or two would not only further his development under Sean Dyche, but also likely spark further opportunities for him to explore in the future.
Manchester City and Arsenal are two examples of teams who don’t need a centre-back now, but in a year or two could be in the market.
It is in the best interests of his development and his future prospects to remain at Everton. Let’s hope Kevin Thelwell can convince him as such.
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox
