Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is not for sale in January as David Moyes’ side looks to build for the future by holding onto the English star.
The 23-year-old was a regular in the Everton side last season but has not featured for the Toffees this campaign after picking up a hamstring injury. His return date from that injury is still unknown. That injury was suffered in the final game of pre-season, and Moyes recently stated they expect the defender back shortly.
Recently, Premier League clubs Liverpool and Manchester United were named as two sides headed for a collision course over the defender. Recent reports confirmed this news, with United credited with a long-standing interest in the 23-year-old. However, Everton has stood firm in its stance and remains resolute, with the January window a few months away.
The Toffees see the defender as a central part of their project, and a new contract helps their situation. The side appears to be taking a position of not being a club that sells. This is also evidenced by the fact that Amadou Onana was the last notable sale made, with only ageing names leaving this past summer.
Manchester United tug of war in January.
Football Insider has reported that David Moyes’ Everton are determined to retain their prized asset, especially as the club enters a new era with fresh investment. Moving to Anfield would risk damaging the legacy of an already talented and popular figure among Everton fans. Although Peter Beardsley once made this move, the club now faces a different set of circumstances.
In an ideal world, David Moyes’ side would like to hold on to the defender. That may be easier said than done in this modern game. However, with fresh ownership and a new lease on life, the pressure to sell is not ever-present. They have held on to the Englishman’s services for this long. In aid of their efforts, the 23-year-old signed a new contract until 2030, helping to ensure a hefty fee would be required to lure him away.
The days of Manchester United being one of the most attractive options in English football seem to have passed. While they have brought in names like Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbuemo, problems remain. Speculation continues over the future of Ruben Amorim, with names being tipped to replace the Portuguese manager, including
Gareth Southgate.
Gareth Southgate’s Appointment May Affect Manchester United’s Plans.
While there has been no concrete news on the future of Amorim, it would be safe to assume his role is in jeopardy. After a 15th-placed finish and defeat in the Europa League final, the Red Devils have endured a string of similar fortunes at Old Trafford this season. They occupy a similar lowly position of 14th-placed, picking up two wins in their six games.
While one problem at Old Trafford appears to be the players Amorim has at his disposal versus his favoured system, Southgate would be able to bring in a system which would see him the best out of limited resources. The former England boss has led his country on multiple tournament runs, where he has fallen short, leading to criticisms.
If Manchester United were to appoint a name like Gareth Southgate, it may not help the case of Branthwaite moving to Old Trafford. After an impressive campaign in the 2023/24 season, he was left out of the squad for the Euro 2024 campaign. England reached the final of that tournament, but the then-England boss said he felt it was too soon for the young defender to be a part of that team.
