Everton boss Sean Dyche has responded to questions surrounding the club’s recruitment in light of Manchester United’s interest in Jarrad Branthwaite.
The Premier League giant’s pursuit of the Toffees’ defender has been well documented this summer as the Red Devils continue their pursuit of defensive reinforcements.
However, it has become increasingly clear that the move financially does not work for Erik ten Hag’s side as they look to improve on their worst ever Premier League finish. Man Utd have already added Leny Yoro to the club and look set to accelerate their pursuit of a second defender due to their new signing picking up an injury in pre-season.
De Ligt has been identified as a target alongside Branthwaite, which could be the direction Dan Ashworth and the new-look recruitment team opt to go.
Despite the huge cost, Everton’s signing of Jake O’Brien has raised a few eyebrows as to whether the player has been signed as a potential replacement for the in-demand Branthwaite.
What did Sean Dyche say?
Speaking to Sky Sports Dyche responded to claims that the player is been side to fill the gap ahead of a potential departure:
“No way! You’re kidding me! I’m very surprised you’ve put two and two together at Everton Football Club. It’s nothing to do with that. It’s just to do with trying to model the club with the finances available, obviously we’re stretched at the moment with depth.
“We are trying to bring in players who can add layers to the club, younger players who can develop and protect the club both on and off the pitch with their performances and then in the future with the finances. It’s a tough juggling act and it’s tough to find the players who can do that, we think we have a few here. We’ve made it clear to him [Branthwaite] that there’s nothing other than that. But, of course, put two and two together and everyone starts speculating. What do you do?”
Will Branthwaite move to Manchester United?
Unless there is a significant change in the water, the move is perhaps moving into the unlikely stage. Manchester United are keen to avoid the overspending of the past and Everton know they can afford to ask a large fee for a player they don’t want to leave.
With de Ligt also reportedly available and a target at a lower price, it appears as though the Dutchman will reunite with ten Hag rather than the Englishman.