Everton set new Jarrad Branthwaite price and it’s not what fans expected – Sources
Everton have put a £70million price tag on defender Jarrad Branthwaite this summer but could now be forced to sell him for less, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Toffees will demand the huge fee for the centre-back amid interest from Premier League and European clubs.
It is believed that the likes of Man United, Real Madrid, Newcastle United and Man City are all monitoring the 21-year-old’s situation at Goodison Park ahead of the summer transfer window.
However, well-placed sources have told Football Insider that Sean Dyche’s side could accept a cut-price deal for the Englishman amid their financial struggles.
Everton slap new price tag on in-demand ace Jarrad Branthwaite
The club recently revealed £89.1million of losses on their accounts for last season following their six-point deduction and amid another pending charge for profit and sustainability breaches.
If they want to balance their books for this season, they need to sanction player sales by 30 June – the date clubs must file their financial accounts.
This could force them to sell Branthwaite below their £70million valuation in what would be an unexpected and demoralising twist.
Branthwaite has been a standout for the struggling Toffees this season and looks set to earn a big move this summer.
Well-placed sources have told Football Insider (5 February) that Man United are “leading the race” to sign the youngster, who has made 28 Premier League starts this season.
Football Insider also revealed (15 February) that Tottenham are confident they can raise the funds for big-money deals this summer amid links with Branthwaite, who was called up for the recent senior England squad during the international break.
Everton sit 15th in the Premier League table after their 1-0 win against Burnley on Saturday afternoon (6 April).
They are next in action against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next Monday night (15 April).
In other news, Everton takeover: Keith Wyness reveals ‘biggest sign yet’ over deal completion.
For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.