Jarrad Branthwaite breaks silence on Everton after Man Utd transfer offers

Jarrad Branthwaite is looking forward to a new season with Everton, despite rumours the defender could join Manchester United. The young centre-back has enjoyed a breakout season, breaking into the Blues’ first team squad at the start of the year and forming a strong partnership with James Tarkowski.

His remarkable performances have earned him an England cap and a first international appearance. As a result, some big-name clubs have been linked with a possible move for Branthwaite, with the Red Devils being the most prominent. Nevertheless, the 22-year-old remains an Everton player and, at the club’s training camp in the Republic of Ireland, the defender spoke about what he hopes to achieve with Everton in the coming months.

“I think for me it’s just about taking what I learned from last season and the season before and putting it all together,” he explained, according to Everton’s official website.

“I think playing all the games I did last season helped me put in some good performances and gain the experience I needed. I’ll take that into account this season and keep learning.”

“When you have a good defensive record it gives you confidence going into the new season. It’s not just the defenders who contribute to that, it’s the whole team and the way the manager has organised us to give us the best possible chance of winning games and taking as many points as possible.

“I think it will be the same this season. Hopefully we can get some wins early on and carry that momentum into the new season.”

United have already seen two bids for Branthwaite rejected this summer and after the PSR deadline expires in June, Everton find themselves in a stronger position to reject any offer they feel is below their valuation.

The Red Devils have also made progress in their attempts to bolster their central defensive options elsewhere, with a deal close to be signed for 18-year-old Lille prospect Leny Yoro. They are also reportedly interested in Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt.