Everton preparing for life without key man as Chelsea come calling



Everton may indeed part ways with Jarrad Branthwaite at the end of the season, a scenario they appear to have come to terms with, especially considering his impressive performances throughout this term.

The Toffees appear to be bracing for the departure of one of their key players, Branthwaite, this summer, with interest from Chelsea and other Premier League clubs. They are reportedly monitoring Jacob Greaves from Hull City as a potential replacement for the defender, as per the Daily Mirror.

According to the same source, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are both admirers of Branthwaite, while the Daily Mail previously stated in January that Chelsea were eyeing a summer transfer for the central defender. Branthwaite has played a pivotal role for Everton this season, featuring in 30 matches across all competitions.

Branthwaite without a doubt has proven to be one of the better young defender’s in the Premier League this season so it is understandable that several teams are queuing up for the Everton man.

But the reality is Sean Dyche will not want to let go of the 21-year-old unless he has a replacement. Jacob Greaves of Hull City would certainly be of interest to the Toffees given his standout campaign for the Championship outfit.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 03: Jarrad Branthwaite (R) and Idrissa Gueye of Everton celebrate their teams second goal during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison Park on February 03, 2024 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)

Chelsea to bid for Everton’s Branthwaite?

When examining Chelsea’s squad, they appear solid in central defence on paper. However, frequent and severe injuries to Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana alter the situation. Additionally, Thiago Silva’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, with no indications of a renewal for the Brazilian – it is imperative they can land a reliable central defender in the summer transfer window to fix these issues.

We know money certainly isn’t a problem for Chelsea, which I’m sure will entice Everton supporters and the football club as Branthwaite continues to be linked to the Blues.