Everton are eager to improve their defence for the coming season, but they may have to deal with a significant setback first.
The Toffees will look for reinforcements during the summer transfer window as they finalise their move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Everton has improved considerably since David Moyes’ return as manager, but there is still more work to be done in the team, with The Friedkin Group planning to spend.
However, Jarrad Branthwaite could be on the move this summer, with Chelsea showing an increased interest as the transfer season approaches.
London residents may also be in queue for a huge prize in the near future.
Chelsea shortlist Branthwaite for transfer
Everton will want to keep their finest players this summer, but Champions League contenders Chelsea are increasingly showing interest.
Branthwaite has been outstanding since breaking into the first team, and has established himself as one of the best young centre-backs in the Premier League.
| Defender | Appearances | Tackles won | Duels won | Pass accuracy |
| Branthwaite | 29 | 20 | 112 | 82.9% |
Sky Sports writer Kaveh Solhekol has mentioned Branthwaite as one of the acquisitions Chelsea hopes to make this summer, with the Blues in need of defensive reinforcements.
Enzo Maresca’s team is also claimed to be “on track” to earn a whopping £200 million windfall via potential Champions League qualification and Club World Cup progression.
Everton scout centre-backs as Branthwaite could leave
It would take a huge fee to convince Everton to part ways with their star defender, but Branthwaite leaving cannot yet be ruled out this summer.
The ideal case would be for Everton to strengthen their defence and develop around Branthwaite, but they will need to be aggressive in their transfer objectives because a centre-back is required, even if he stays.
Everton have now scouted Auxerre centre-back Sinaly Diomande, and if Branthwaite does depart, the proceeds from his sale may be reinvested into the squad and used to help with PSR.
They’ve also looked into Nathan Zeze, who could be leaving FC Nantes for a low amount due to the club’s financial problems.
If Everton sells Branthwaite to Chelsea, the fans will be disappointed, but if they can maximise the cash they receive for him and reinvest it wisely, they can turn the situation around.
