David Moyes has hit back at claims Everton are prepared to offload star defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer, despite strong interest from Manchester United and Tottenham.
The 22-year-old centre-back, who broke into the England squad last year, remains a long-term target for United. The Red Devils had two bids rejected last summer—one of which was reportedly worth £50 million. Erik ten Hag eventually turned his attention to Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro instead.
Branthwaite has continued to impress this season, playing a key role in Everton’s solid defensive setup alongside James Tarkowski. His performances have helped the Toffees stay clear of relegation trouble under Moyes, who returned to the club mid-season.
Recent reports claimed Everton’s board have already accepted Branthwaite will be sold, possibly with Spurs also eyeing the young defender amid speculation Cristian Romero could leave North London.
However, Moyes has poured cold water on those rumours and made it clear that Everton are under no pressure to sell.
“Jarrad still has three years left on his contract—two plus an option year—so we’re in control,” said Moyes ahead of Everton’s clash with Nottingham Forest.
“That said, Everton have always been a club that’s had to sell players over the years—Wayne Rooney, Mikel Arteta, Joleon Lescott. That’s part of the job, especially when you’re building something.
“But Jarrad is not someone I want to lose, let’s be clear about that.”
Branthwaite earned his first England cap in 2023, and his blend of composure and physicality has made him one of the Premier League’s most sought-after young defenders. One unnamed Premier League club reportedly tried to sign him on January deadline day, but Everton refused to sell.
Meanwhile, Moyes is also preparing for a major rebuild. A total of 15 players, including loanees, are out of contract this summer—potentially leaving Everton with just 11 senior players.
Despite that looming overhaul, Moyes remains optimistic.
“We’re starting to plan ahead. First, we need to be mathematically safe,” he explained. “I think we’ve probably already done enough to stay up, but we’ll wait for the confirmation before making contract decisions and firming up transfer plans.”
One reported target for Moyes is Liverpool youngster Ben Doak, though luring the Scottish winger across the Merseyside divide would be no small feat.
For now, the Everton boss is focused on stability—and making sure any key departures, like Branthwaite, are on his terms.