Despite Everton’s struggle against Premier League relegation, Branthwaite has shone brightly in his breakout season at Goodison Park,
positioning himself for a potential debut with the senior England squad against Belgium on Tuesday.
Amid his remarkable performances and Everton’s financial challenges, the 21-year-old defender has been a subject of intense transfer speculation.
The club’s deduction of six points for PSR breaches has exacerbated their financial woes, potentially leading to further sanctions before the season’s end.
According to reports from the Daily Mail, Manchester City has expressed interest in acquiring Branthwaite, impressed by his youth, English nationality, and resemblance to former Everton player John Stones.
Despite his limited experience with just 35 Premier League appearances, Branthwaite’s potential has attracted attention from other top clubs as well, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Recent reports have indicated that both Manchester United and Real Madrid have been monitoring Branthwaite, albeit with hesitation due to Everton’s valuation of at least £70 million.
This valuation could fluctuate depending on Everton’s Premier League status next season.
Manchester United’s transfer plans for the summer window have yet to be finalized, as INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe oversee a restructuring process at the club.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise has emerged as a potential target for both the old and new regimes at Old Trafford.
On the other hand, Real Madrid has prioritized securing the signings of Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain and Alphonso Davies from Bayern Munich.
Any consideration of adding a centre-back to their squad would depend on the availability of funds after these major acquisitions.
In the midst of speculation surrounding his future, Branthwaite’s potential move to Manchester City or any other interested club could significantly impact Everton’s defensive lineup.
With ongoing negotiations and uncertainties surrounding Everton’s financial situation, Branthwaite’s future destination remains uncertain until the summer transfer window unfolds.
