Everton’s reaction to new reports about Jarrad Branthwaite potentially making a controversial move to Liverpool

Everton are not worried about Liverpool making a move for their star player Jarrad Branthwaite in the January transfer window. Branthwaite made his first appearance of the season for Everton on Saturday, helping them record their first Premier League win of the season. While Manchester United were planning to make a bid for Branthwaite next summer, the report suggests Liverpool are also interested in the player and could potentially make a move for him in January.

Despite such speculative reporting, the ECHO understands nothing has changed from when bookmakers slashed the odds of Branthwaite joining Liverpool in August. Back then, both club insiders and those close to the England international’s camp were left puzzled by the developments, claiming to be unaware of the source of such speculation, with no communication between Everton and Liverpool on the matter.

Everton’s management has remained silent about potential interest from Liverpool in Branthwaite, but the club believes they are in a strong position if further interest arises in the England international. Everton entered the summer transfer window aware that sales were necessary, but they are determined to retain the star centre-back and aim to navigate the market in a way that will help them achieve this goal.

Last week, the Friedkin Group confirmed a takeover deal to acquire Farhad Moshiri’s entire 94.1% stake in Everton, offering the club a more financially secure and stable future. Despite the two-point deductions last season, Everton believes it is now in a good position, with the internal expectation that compliance with financial regulations is unlikely to be a significant concern this year, reducing the need for another major player sale.

Everton rejected substantial offers from Manchester United for Branthwaite during the summer transfer window, refusing bids of £35 million plus add-ons and then £45 million plus add-ons. The club insisted they would not sell him cheaply, as they had planned for him to remain with them this season unless an exceptionally high offer was received. Everton consider Branthwaite to be in the same value range as recent high-profile defender transfers, such as Harry Maguire, Wesley Fofana, and Josko Gvardiol, given the premium for left-footed and homegrown talent.