Liverpool Join Manchester United in Race for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite
Liverpool have entered the chase for Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, viewing the England international as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk at Anfield.
Van Dijk’s Contract Situation Fuels Liverpool Interest
The 24-year-old has rediscovered his form under David Moyes this campaign, catching the eye of several leading European sides. Liverpool scouts have reportedly been tracking his displays closely, weighing him up as they plan for life after van Dijk, whose current deal runs out next summer.
According to former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown, speaking to Football Insider, Liverpool have carried out extensive background checks on Branthwaite and rate him highly as a left-footed central defender. Given his age, top-flight pedigree and left-sided profile, it’s easy to see why he ticks so many boxes for the Reds’ recruitment team.
There’s an obvious snag, though: Liverpool haven’t signed a player straight from Everton since 2002. Branthwaite also put pen to paper on fresh terms last summer, tying him to Goodison Park until 2030, which hands Everton real leverage should any interest turn concrete.
United’s Interest Adds Competition
Manchester United are also keeping tabs on the defender as they hunt for fresh options at the back, and their historically friendlier relationship with Everton could work in their favour. The two clubs have struck deals before, whereas Liverpool would be negotiating with a fierce rival.
Brown noted that Everton’s proximity makes it simple for Liverpool’s scouting staff to watch Branthwaite regularly, which explains the depth of their research so far.
In my view, this remains firmly in the information-gathering stage rather than anything close to a bid. Branthwaite’s contract length and Everton’s stance suggest any move would be a lengthy, awkward negotiation — but if his rise continues, don’t be surprised if this rivalry-laced pursuit becomes one of next summer’s more intriguing subplots.