Fabrizio Romano details Branthwaite state of play as Everton get ready to sign new centre-back

Everton and Manchester United are not currently in negotiations over Jarrad Branthwaite, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Italian journalist reported on 28 July via his Daily Briefing that the Toffees are sticking to their guns and holding out for their desired £70million fee.

Romano also detailed that this means that unless their asking price drops, Manchester United will be unlikely to try for Branthwaite again.

Everton are also near to finalising a deal for Lyon ace Jake O’Brien [Fabrizio Romano, 28 July] but, despite his arrival, it doesn’t mean that he is coming in to replace the Merseyside club’s star boy, the journalist added.

Everton have managed to pull a blinder by keeping Jarrad Branthwaite

Of all the potential Goodison Park exits this summer, many expected 22-year-old Branthwaite to be one of the first out of the Toffees’ exit doors this summer, especially with United’s interest.

The defender had something of a breakout season with the club last term and was one of, if not the best player within Sean Dyche’s line-up.

The partnership he managed to form with James Tarkowski was second-to-none and greatly helped Everton in their Premier League campaign.

In fact, Branthwaite performed so well last season that he was even called up to Gareth Southgate’s provisional Euro 2024 squad.

Indeed, he failed to make the final cut but the fact that he was even considered shows how well he played last term.

The arrival of O’Brien will have no doubt ruffled a few fans’ feathers but the fact that Romano has now said that his arrival doesn’t mean he will be the replacement for Branthwaite will have no doubt calmed their nerves somewhat.

The 2024/25 campaign is shaping up to be a major comeback from the Toffees.

In other Everton news, a Sky Sports journalist has shared an update on three potential arrivals on Merseyside.

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