Everton fans may be sweating over the future of their centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the summer.
David Moyes has used the 22-year-old defender consistently in his starting XI since arriving back on Merseyside.
However, Branthwaite could leave Everton over the coming months with significant interest arriving at Finch Farm.
The Englishman was deal a real blow last month after being left out of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.
In response to his England snub, The FA have reassured Branthwaite he doesn’t need to leave Everton, but only time will tell.
With the speculation growing, Ashley Young has shared his honest thoughts on Branthwaite which should speak volumes for the Friedkins.
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What Ashley Young said about Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite
With the speculation surrounding the defender, it is believed Branthwaite would like to play Champions League football.
However, Everton remain in a strong position over his future as he still has two years left on his contract.
Speaking to the Everton media team, Young had to provide a one-word answer for a number of his teammates.
When it came to Branthwaite, Young very simply said: ‘Leader’.
The 22-year-old has established himself in the Everton starting XI and he is clearly keen to do so in the national side.
Moyes has told Branthwaite he should stay at Everton this summer and should look at Jordan Pickford as an example.
It is clear to see how highly his teammates rate him and the Friedkins will have to react over the coming weeks and months to firm up his future on Merseyside.
Everton need to keep Branthwaite for Bramley-Moore Dock move
A huge summer awaits the Toffees and keeping their best players is now something the club can focus on.
Everton are expected to have a significant transfer budget, with PSR not as big of a worry for the Blues when it comes to spending.
The Friedkins will be looking to improve their squad ahead of the move to their new stadium.
Branthwaite has suggested he wants to captain Everton when they make the move to Bramley-Moore.
Losing the 22-year-old ahead of the move would not be a great look for the club and could even see some of the optimism fizzle out.
Everton are looking to hand Branthwaite a new contract, but they will not destroy their wage structure for the youngster.
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