Everton are set to be involved in another relegation battle this season as they languish in 16th place.
Sean Dyche’s men have won just two of their opening 11 games in the Premier League and they’ve been quite leaky at the back.
That’s unlike The Toffees as they had the fourth-best defence in the league last season, only behind Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool.
Injuries have played a factor in that, with Seamus Coleman and Jarrad Branthwaite sidelined for much of the campaign.
Branthwaite has just returned from injury and will be assessed ahead of this weekend’s clash against Brentford.
It’s imperative they manage his minutes and keep him fit as he’ll be crucial in solving their defensive woes.
Though, Everton must also be wary of interest in his signature this winter, as Manchester United circle once again.
Man United hold talks over signing Jarrad Branthwaite
Manchester United tried to sign Branthwaite during the summer but a deal failed to materialise after the two clubs couldn’t agree a fee.
Now, according to the Daily Mail, United are again planning a move to sign the Everton defender this Janaury.
It’s claimed The Red Devils have held internal talks over the last few weeks about Branthwaite and there is a degree of urgency to sign him due to rival competition.
Liverpool have been credited with an interest in Branthwaite recently, as have La Liga giants Real Madrid.
Branthwaite is seen as a key part missing in Ruben Amorim’s puzzle, with the newly-appointed manager keen to add him to the back three alongside Leny Yoro.
Everton can’t afford to lose Branthwaite
The Toffees simply can’t afford to lose Branthwaite this winter, otherwise it could put their Premier League status at serious risk.
Branthwaite is arguably Everton’s ‘best player’, so his potential departure would be incredibly damaging and even for the morale, it’d be a hard dressing room to lift.
So the Friedkin Group must rebuff any forthcoming interest and not entertain any offers that arrive for their prized asset.
