Michael Keane reacts to Jarrad Branthwaite’s message after confirmed Everton exit news

Jarrad Branthwaite's future at Everton has finally been resolved as speculation continues for several of his team-mates.

David Moyes' side are in the midst of a transformational summer prior to their move from Goodison Park to Bramley-Moore Dock, with several out-of-contract players also saying goodbye to the Evertonians.

Everton had already farewelled Abdoulaye Doucoure, Ashley Young and Asmir Begovic among others at the end of last season, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin has since confirmed his exit after his contract expired.

Final calls are yet to be made by the likes of Idrissa Gueye and Michael Keane, but Everton have taken steps to ensure that Premier League clubs keen on Branthwaite won't be able to sign him without a fight.

Branthwaite 'happy' after Everton contract announcement

Everton were loathe to lose Branthwaite this summer amid interest from Chelsea after another strong season from the centre-back, having knocked back several bids from Manchester United 12 months ago.

Branthwaite's stock has risen massively since his first-team breakthrough in 2023, and after Everton fans were given an inclination that he would sign a new contract, the news was made official on Wednesday.

Everton announced that Branthwaite had penned a new long-term deal until 2030 at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on 2 July, and the centre-back posted on Instagram with a heartfelt message to supporters.

In a post liked by his exit-linked defensive partner Keane, Branthwaite said: "Happy to extend my journey with Everton. Looking forward to the start of the season. Up The Toffees".

Branthwaite statement to begin new-look approach at Everton

Football Insider Verdict

Everton fans were delighted to learn that Branthwaite had committed his future to the club, with the 22-year-old's new contract already seen as the best signing the Toffees could have made this summer.

Moyes can't afford to stop there as he rebuilds a squad which has been underfunded and overstretched in recent seasons, and the likes of Keane haven't done enough to warrant new deals for continuity alone.

Calvert-Lewin's exit comes despite being offered new terms by Everton, and the injury-prone striker's departure is a blessing in disguise for a club who need to embrace the new era they are embarking on next season.