Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is ready to commit his long-term future to the club.
The 21-year old, who cost Everton £1m when they signed him from Carlisle United in 2020, has proved one of their brighter performers this season for what is shaping to be another battle for Premier League survival.
Branthwaite benefited from a campaign spent on loan at PSV Eindhoven last season, initially under the guidance of former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, where a regular run of games allowed him to improve and gain confidence.
Manager Sean Dyche has trusted him to form a partnership with James Tarkowski at the heart of Everton’s defence and the 6ft 5ins centre back has continued to develop despite the side’s overall struggles.
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is ready to commit his long-term future to the club
Brathwaite has proved one of Everton’s brighter performers this season
A number of top teams, including Manchester United and PSV Eindhoven have been monitoring his progress, indeed the Dutch side wanted to sign him on a permanent deal following the end of his loan in May, but Everton are hopeful of tying the England U21 international down to a new deal.
Branthwaite’s current contract has two years to run with an option for a third and the club have been willing to offer new terms for some months to reward the steps forward he is making.
Everton’s financial restrictions, despite their pending takeover, means they remain vulnerable to offers from rivals, but a new contract will go some way to protecting one of their brightest assets.