Heading into the transfer window it doesn’t appear that Manchester City need defensive reinforcements. The champions appear well-stocked with quality centre-backs. Despite this City have once again been linked with a move for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
Ken Lawrence and Ciaran Wiseman have reported for the Sun that Manchester City have their eyes on Jarrad Branthwaite. They report that Pep Guardiola is impressed with the ability of the Everton defender to play out from the back and with his defensive qualities. Furthermore, Lawrence and Wiseman report that Manchester United are also interested in signing Branthwaite this summer. Lastly, it is also included in the Sun’s report that Everton are no longer under pressure to sell Branthwaite this summer.
There is no doubting the quality of Jarrad Branthwaite. He had an impressive 23/24 season for Everton. His strong form earned him a place in Gareth Southgate’s preliminary England squad for the European Championships. But he missed out on selection in England’s final squad for the tournament. Based on his performances for Sean Dyche’s side last season it is clear to see why Manchester City would have an interest in signing Branthwaite.
But as it stands currently the world champions appear well-stocked for centre-backs. With John Stones, Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, Josko Gvardiol and Manuel Akanji all capable of playing the position it doesn’t appear to be a major priority for Manchester City this summer. Unless one of City’s centre-backs departs this summer it doesn’t appear likely that the champions will move for Branthwaite this summer. Whether or not that is a possibility this summer remains to be seen.
The only way it appears that City could move for Branthwaite is if the champions deem him too good a player not to sign. Based on Braithwaite’s performances for Everton that may be the case. He is one of the brightest defensive prospects in English football. It will be interesting to see if that alone is enough for Manchester City to invest in the Everton defender.
The future of Jarrad Branthwaite is one of many stories to watch for this summer. Whether or not City will move for the defender is another. On face value, it appears unlikely. But players like Branthwaite don’t come around often. That could prove to be the decisive factor in a potential City move for the Everton defender.