Jarrad Branthwaite is one of Everton’s brightest talents.
Ever since his integration into the first team last season, Branthwaite has been a stalwart in the defence and was subsequently rewarded with his first England call-up.
His rise through the ranks at Goodison Park means that Branthwaite has been linked with a move to Manchester United.
Man United reportedly tried to sign Branthwaite in the summer but fell well short of the asking price.
Merseyside rivals Liverpool also hold an interest in Branthwaite while European giants Real Madrid also see the English defender as a long-term option in their defence.
The Toffees are no doubt going to face a battle to keep him, but one Everton FA Cup-winning hero has given the 22-year-old some advice on what he should do with his future.
FA Cup winner Anders Limpar urges Jarrad Branthwaite to stay at Everton
Despite all of the noise surrounding his future, Jarrad Branthwaite seems fully focused on helping Everton steer away from a relegation battle once again.
The defender has also struggled with injuries this season, completing 90 minutes once in the win against Crystal Palace but is still being watched by many on the continent.
However, former Everton star Anders Limpar has urged the 22-year-old to remain on Merseyside as the club prepares for an exciting new chapter.
“He shouldn’t leave right now,” he told the Liverpool Echo.
“I would like for him to stay at the club a few more years and help Everton and then get his move. He is going to play for big clubs in his career when he wants.”
Three players who could replace Jarrad Branthwaite at Everton
Thankfully for Everton, there are already two players who can fill the Branthwaite-sized hole if he is to leave.
Michael Keane is the first option. Having started the majority of games alongside James Tarkowski, he would be the first choice, but with Keane out of contract in 2025, he will have to commit his future to the club before it becomes a realistic option.
Jake O’Brien has had to be patient for game time since his summer move from Lyon but has looked impressive in his brief outings and would have no problem slotting into the centre-back role.
The final option would be to look elsewhere. Given United’s interest, there could be an opportunity to include Victor Lindelof in a swap deal.
Lindelof is out of favour at Old Trafford and would more than likely relish a new start. If Branthwaite were to go to United, it would save scouring the market for a replacement and his Premier League experience would be something that would benefit Sean Dyche’s side massively.
How Jarrad Branthwaite’s 2024/25 stats compare to three replacements.
