Real Madrid are reportedly keeping tabs on Everton’s highly-rated centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite after his impressive breakthrough into the first team.
This comes after Mail Sport reported that Los Blancos are keen on bringing in central defensive cover after long-term injuries to starting pair David Alaba and Eder Militao. Having been impressed by his growth and progression, the Spanish giants reportedly want to sign Branthwaite as a long-term solution to their problems.
The 21-year-old began his youth career with Carlisle United, before joining Everton’s academy in 2020. He had loan spells with Blackburn Rovers (2021), PSV (2022-23) and Jong PSV (2022), before breaking into the Toffees’ first team under Sean Dyche.
Since then, Branthwaite has made 35 appearances for the senior team and has even scored a goal and been sent off in his short yet promising career so far.
Jarrad Branthwaite is a tall, lanky, left-footed central defender who is good on the ball and pick a short pass as well as a long ball with relative ease. His natural style of play aides ball progression, which makes him such a crucial asset, especially if teams are looking for long-term solutions.
The youngster has played 1,980 minutes in 22 games across competitions so far and is well on his way to becoming an irreplaceable player for Everton under Dyche. Should any suitor come in, they will have to shell out massive sums in excess of £50 million to gain Everton’s attention.
Branthwaite could also play as a left-back, another position which Real Madrid are looking to secure for the long-term.
ALSO READ: Manchester City could edge Arsenal in the race for talented winger with a special assurance.