Everton centre back Jarrad Branthwaite is on Real Madrid‘s radar ahead of a potential summer move.
The 21-year-old has had a stand-out season alongside James Tarkowski at the heart of Everton’s defence and has played himself into the reckoning for Gareth Southgate‘s next England squad and earned a new contract that ties him to the club for another three years with the option of another year.
A number of Premier League and foreign sides have taken note, Manchester United and Tottenham in particular, but it is the interest of Real that will excite the young Cumbrian.
He is no stranger to Real boss Carlo Ancelotti of course as the Italian gave him his first team debut while coach at Everton and he has often received further messages of encouragement from Carlo’s assistant and son, Davide.
Real want a centre back for the summer as they make contingency plans for the recovery of Eder Militao and 31-year-old David Alaba following anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
Everton youngster Jarrad Branthwaite is being monitored by Spanish giants Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti (right) knows him well having brought him through when managing Everton
They are assessing a number of options and Branthwaite has received some glowing reports from scouts.
Described by his former mentor and coach Ruud van Nistelrooy as ‘complete’ from their time working together at PSV Eindhoven, Real want to know if Branthwaite also has the mentality and personality to undertake such a move. They will continue to monitor his progress in the coming months.
His agent David Reeves said: ‘Everton were the ones who took a chance on Jarrad in signing him from Carlisle and he is happy getting a run in the team and playing well.
‘You can’t help but notice the way he is performing but he’s a loyal, level-headed lad and he’s enjoying this moment. He just wants to carry on growing as a player, getting better.’
Everton would not consider selling Branthwaite cheaply particularly with their financial position but rival clubs believe they are vulnerable to offers regardless of the proposed takeover from 777 Partners.
Italian side Atalanta have been deterred though over a move for Everton’s Ben Godfrey because of the overall costs. Arsenal retain an interest in Amadou Onana.
Real Madrid like Branthwaite and he has received some glowing reviews from talent scouts
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