Reports suggest Chelsea, Man United and Tottenham have added Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite to their wishlist.
Chelsea tracking Everton defender
Chelsea has had issues in their backline from time to time. It isn’t a surprise they need a long-term fix. That is where Jarrad Branthwaite comes in. The Everton defender has looked one of the better young defenders in the league. He has impressed by his reading of the game, physicality and calmness under pressure.
At the age of 23, he has years still to develop, but the talent is huge. Bringing him in would likely give the Blues a reliable centre-back. He can control the defence for years.
Enzo Maresca’s side aren’t alone in this chase. As per Fichajes, both Manchester United and Tottenham are interested as well. Man Utd are reportedly ready to cough up £60m. That is a fee that could force Everton into a tough decision even though they don’t wish to sell him. Chelsea know they’ll have to move fast if they want to beat their rivals to his signature.
Toffees standing firm
Everton’s stance is clear, they don’t want to lose their best defender. With survival still their main battle, selling Branthwaite could be disastrous. Yet, the lure of UCL nights and trophy pushes is hard to ignore.
For the West London side, this is more than just adding another body at the back. It’s focusing on solving a weakness that has been long-standing as well as not letting rivals such as United get stronger at their expense. On top of that, Spurs also consider him to be the perfect partner for Cristian Romero, so the stakes are raised.
Chelsea have to sell Branthwaite on him becoming one of the top defenders in the country Should the move go through, this could be a transfer that defines the next era of the club’s defence. The Blues need authority and stability at the back, and Branthwaite ticks both boxes.
Author’s Opinion:
Chelsea must not let slip this opportunity for the club to sign Branthwaite. He appears to be the exact combination of talent and maturity. He may become the defensive centerpiece they’ve have lacked. If United or Spurs push hard, the Blues must fight even harder.
