Chelsea backed to enter the race for Tottenham Hotspur target Jarrad Branthwaite
Tottenham Hotspur have been monitoring their pursuit of Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite during this summer transfer window, following hurdles in Manchester United’s chase of his services (h/t Daily Mail).
Everton are facing PSR compliance problems, which may force them to sell one key player this summer to alleviate their financial situation. The likely candidates for this sale are either Branthwaite or Amadou Onana. Tottenham and Manchester United are looking to capitalize on this situation to secure one of the best defensive prospects in the English top tier at a reduced price.
Initially, the Red Devils seemed to have taken the lead in the race to acquire the 21-year-old England international, overtaking Spurs as the favourites. However, they have reportedly pulled the plug on the deal after disrespecting Everton with a low first offer. This development presents Spurs with an opportunity to take advantage of the stalemate at Old Trafford. Additionally, Chelsea have also expressed renewed interest in signing the promising young talent.
Branthwaite bidding war?
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness, speaking in the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, suggested that the West Londoners need defensive reinforcements following Thiago Silva’s departure, and they can look to sign the one-capped England international.
Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, and Axel Disasi are the current options at Stamford Bridge in the centre-back position. Wyness said:
“With Thiago Silva going, I think they’re going to have to look at bringing in another centre-half. I thought they would’ve been in for Branthwaite; I thought they would’ve been prepared to bring him in. They may still come in; later in the window, it could happen soon. They certainly need more talent in the centre-back area. Chelsea also haven’t solved their attacking situation. There’s no doubt they need another in there.
We will see if Chelsea enter the race for the 21-year-old Tottenham target; however, we also need to see if Daniel Levy fortifies Spurs’ interest in landing the Three Lions star this summer, as Tottenham have multiple positions to shop for going into the summer window.