Manchester United have had two bids rejected for Jarrad Branthwaite, with Everton’s James Tarkowski expressing hope that the “outstanding” Branthwaite will stay with the club beyond this summer.
The young centre-back had an impressive breakthrough season in 2023-24, making 41 appearances and scoring three goals, which played a significant role in helping Everton avoid Premier League relegation despite an eight-point deduction for profit and sustainability breaches.
Branthwaite and Tarkowski formed a formidable defensive partnership, with Everton finishing the season with the fifth-best defensive record in the league. Branthwaite’s rapid progress has caught the attention of Manchester United, who have made two bids for him in the summer transfer window. However, Everton has turned down both offers and has resisted selling the player.
Speaking after Everton’s 1-1 pre-season friendly draw against AS Roma, Tarkowski expressed his desire for Branthwaite to return to action soon following minor groin surgery. The Everton vice-captain said: “I’m not privy to all of the discussions about Jarrad, but I spent a season playing with him, and he was outstanding. He’s still young and has room to improve, but we all know the quality he brings as a player.
“Personally, I hope he stays here, and I get to play alongside him again this year. I know he’s dealing with a few issues right now, but hopefully, he’ll be back with the lads soon and on the pitch because he was such an important player last season.”
Ahead of the 2024-25 season, Everton has bolstered their defense by signing Jake O’Brien from Lyon for £17 million. O’Brien has featured in three pre-season matches and may start in the season opener against Brighton at Goodison Park if Branthwaite and Michael Keane (knee injury) are unavailable.
Tarkowski praised O’Brien, saying, “He’s done well. He’s still young and has a lot to learn, especially with how we play—being aggressive, pushing high up the pitch, and winning the ball early. But physically, he’s strong, good on the ball, and I’m sure he’ll fit in well with the team.”
Tarkowski, who recently returned from a glute injury that kept him out of Everton’s first three pre-season matches, feels “ready to go.” He added, “Yeah, I missed a couple of weeks, so there’s been some catching up in terms of fitness. But I’ll be ready. I’ve had a couple of weeks back on the grass, training with the lads. So yeah, I’m ready to go.”
