David Moyes has made it clear that Everton will demand a hefty transfer fee for Jarrad Branthwaite, warning Manchester United and Chelsea that they’ll need to spend big if they want to sign the highly-rated defender.
Branthwaite, 22, has been on the radar of several top clubs after a standout 2023-24 season.
Despite an early injury setback this campaign, he has continued to impress, further solidifying his reputation as one of the Premier League’s most promising young center-backs.
Speaking about the transfer speculation, Moyes, who recently returned to Goodison Park for a second stint as Everton manager, praised Branthwaite’s development but emphasized that he won’t come cheap.
“Jarrad has done really well,” Moyes said. “There are still moments where he plays like a young center-back, but he has so much going for him.
He’s already been involved in the England squad, and having someone like [James] Tarkowski as a mentor has helped him improve.”
With financial concerns lingering over Everton, Moyes acknowledged the club still has financial obligations to settle but suggested that they are moving in a positive direction.
However, when it comes to Branthwaite’s future, his message was clear.
“If people want to buy Jarrad, I’ve said many times bring a big bag of money,” he stated.
Branthwaite’s omission from England’s Euro 2024 squad raised eyebrows among Everton fans, and his stock continues to rise.
Chelsea, reportedly eyeing a move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, could turn to Branthwaite if their primary target proves unattainable.
Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin believes the Toffees defender could be exactly what the Blues need to strengthen their backline.
“Chelsea still have weaknesses, especially in central defense,” Nevin told BBC Sport. “They don’t have the level of defensive stability that Arsenal and Liverpool possess.
I just wonder if Jarrad Branthwaite could be prised from my beloved Everton would he be the final piece of the jigsaw?”
With both Chelsea and Manchester United in need of defensive reinforcements, Branthwaite could be a top summer target. But as Moyes has made clear, prying him away from Everton will come at a steep price.