{"remix_data":[],"remix_entry_point":"challenges","source_tags":[],"origin":"unknown","total_draw_time":0,"total_draw_actions":0,"layers_used":0,"brushes_used":0,"photos_added":0,"total_editor_actions":{},"tools_used":{},"is_sticker":false,"edited_since_last_sticker_save":false,"containsFTESticker":false}
Signed for £1m now a “PHYSICAL BEAST” Worth way more than £23m-rated Van Dijk: Everton hit gold on “physical beast” who now worth more than Liverpool Van Dijk
Everton faces a crucial run of fixtures ahead, but optimism is growing on the blue half of Merseyside.
The Toffees are set to host Bournemouth in the FA Cup before next week’s highly anticipated Merseyside derby.
David Moyes’ energizing return has sparked a resurgence in form, with Everton winning three consecutive Premier League matches—thrashing Tottenham and Leicester City and securing an away victory at Brighton.
The key? Defensive solidity. Everton has not conceded a goal in their last three games, gaining valuable breathing room at the lower end of the Premier League table.
This newfound stability has allowed them to approach the Bournemouth tie with less pressure.
Moyes’ Impact at Everton
Moyes has already matched the number of top-flight victories his predecessor, Sean Dyche, achieved—three wins from four matches—despite Dyche’s 19-game tenure in the 2024/25 season.
The Scottish manager has reinvigorated the team, boosting belief on the field and igniting the atmosphere at Goodison Park.
Under Moyes, Everton’s attacking play has seen a notable improvement, averaging 3.3 big chances per game in the four matches he’s managed, compared to just 1.9 across the entire Premier League season, according to Sofascore.
While Moyes inherited one of the league’s most disciplined defensive units, he has the ability to elevate their performance even further. His leadership is already helping develop key players, with Jarrad Branthwaite likely benefitting the most.
Branthwaite’s Development Under Moyes
Branthwaite has been one of Everton’s standout performers, earning praise as a “physical beast” from analyst Ben Mattinson.
The young defender was a key part of Dyche’s resilient side last season, keeping 13 clean sheets in 35 games as Everton comfortably avoided relegation, even with an eight-point financial deduction.
An academy graduate who joined at 17 for £1 million from Carlisle, Branthwaite is quickly establishing himself as one of the club’s top talents—potentially following in the footsteps of legends like Wayne Rooney.
After missing the start of the current campaign due to a back injury, it’s no surprise that Everton’s defense struggled without him. Now back in the fold, Branthwaite has been dominant, winning 78% of his ground duels this season.
Under Moyes, he is expected to be even more involved in possession as the team seeks a balance between counter-attacking and more controlled build-up play.
Branthwaite’s Growing Value
Manchester United has reportedly maintained interest in the £75 million-rated Branthwaite after missing out on him last summer, with Manchester City and Liverpool also monitoring the situation.
Should he eventually leave for one of Everton’s rivals, particularly Liverpool, it would be a bitter pill to swallow. However, with Virgil van Dijk, 33, set to be out of contract soon, FSG’s interest in Branthwaite makes sense.
The 22-year-old’s potential is undeniable, already valued more than three times the £23 million-rated Van Dijk, according to Transfermarkt. Branthwaite is still years away from reaching his peak, and his athleticism and strength at the back have made him an essential part of Moyes’ system.
Should he be sold in the future, Everton would stand to make a significant profit, further cementing his value as one of the brightest young defenders in English football.
