Everton may now be forced to sell Manchester City and Real Madrid target Jarrad Branthwaite due to financial problems.
That is according to talkSPORT.
So, what is the latest on Manchester City target Jarrad Branthwaite? Let’s take a look…
Everton may have to sell Branthwaite
Well – according to Alex Crook of talkSPORT – Everton’s issues with financial breaches may force them to cash in on the England U21 international.
The Merseysiders have already been docked ten points this season for breaching the Premier League’s financial rules, and now face a further six point deduction for a similar offence.
It comes after the Daily Mail claimed that Manchester City are monitoring Branthwaite amid his stunning rise under Sean Dyche.
A separate story from the Daily Mail then added that Real Madrid are keen on the Carlisle-born defender, which is also backed up in talkSPORT’s report.
Branthwaite emerged from Everton’s academy after previously rising through the ranks at Carlisle, so if he was to be sold, it would go down in the books as pure profit for the Toffees.
Everton know just how valuable an asset they possess, as – according to iNews – the Toffees want at least £100m to sell the towering central defender.
Branthwaite has made 22 appearances in all competitions this season as Everton sit 17th in the Premier League.
Manchester City have a decision to make
In our view, signing Branthwaite would mean Pep Guardiola sees Josko Gvardiol as a permanent option at left-back.
Manchester City have been strongly linked with a number of left-backs as Txiki Begiristain attempts to add more depth to that area, with many expecting the Croatia international to be moved into the centre if a left-back is found, his natural position.
However, signing Branthwaite – a traditional central defender – would most likely mean Gvardiol stays on the left for good, with the likes of Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake and John Stones also at the Etihad Stadium.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Everton may be forced to sell their No.32 to Manchester City.
