Liverpool 'working on' move to sign Jarrad Branthwaite

Liverpool are plotting a move to sign Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite next summer and have scouts watching him closely.

The 24-year-old has returned to his best form this season and has been outstanding under David Moyes, placing him on the shortlist of a number of top European clubs.

Liverpool are stepping up their efforts to identify new left-sided centre-backs in a bid to replace Virgil van Dijk, and feel the England internatinoal could be ideal.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Liverpool have been watching Branthwaite closely and could join the race for his signature.

Liverpool have not signed a player directly from Everton since 2002, and the rivalry between the clubs would likely make any deal difficult for them to pull off.

However, Branthwaite ticks a number of boxes for the Reds, and they are keeping a close eye on his situation in case he becomes available in 2027.

Could Liverpool make a move for Jarrad Branthwaite?

Football Insider revealed on 19 September that Everton have placed a "huge" price tag on Branthwaite and are not willing to entertain talks about his long-term future.

The centre-back penned a new deal at the Hill Dickinson Stadium last summer to extend his stay until 2030, and Everton are in a strong position to dictate his future.

However, with Van Dijk's contract set to expire next summer, Liverpool have identified Branthwaite as an ideal replacement and could look to test their rivals' resolve.

"Liverpool are looking at left-sided centre-backs to come in and replace Van Dijk," Brown told Football Insider.

"That has placed Jarrad Branthwaite on their radar, he's somebody they are big admirers of, even if it might be a bit difficult for them to do a deal with Everton.

"They've been watching him closely, he plays in the same city so it's easy just to send a scout across to go and watch his games, so they're working on doing their due dilligence.

"Liverpool will already know all about him, that's the work that goes on in the background, you find out about his character, his background, how he is in training.

"It seems like Branthwaite ticks a lot of boxes, and when you're talking about replacements for Van Dijk, he is somebody who is going to be very high on that list.

"Obviously, like I said, it might not be straightforward for them to do a deal with Everton, but if they are given any hint that he might be available, I'd expect them to try to make a move."

Which other clubs are interested in Branthwaite?

Branthwaite's strong start to the new season at Everton has caught the eye of a number of clubs across European football, not just Liverpool, ahead of next summer.

His involvement in Thomas Tuchel's most recent England squad is sure to have impressed those potential suitors, with speculation about his long-term future ramping up.

Football Insider revealed on 18 September that Man United have been keeping a close eye on Branthwaite with a potential move in mind as they eye defensive reinforcements.

The Red Devils have been long-term admirers of the centre-back after they saw offers rejected by Everton in 2024, with the Toffees deeming their bids well below their valuation.

However, they could now reignite that interest and are believed to be tracking his performances to assess whether he can stay fit and continue to impress.