Everton manager Sean Dyche has dismissed any speculation linking the club’s recent signing of Jake O’Brien with the potential departure of Jarrad Branthwaite.
The Republic of Ireland international, standing at 6ft 6in, joined Everton for £16.43 million ($ 21.05m) from Olympique Lyonnais, becoming the club’s fifth summer signing.
Manchester United have shown interest in Branthwaite, making two bids of £35 million ($ 44.8m) plus add-ons and £45 million ($ 57.6m) plus add-ons, both of which Everton rejected.
The club values the young defender highly, especially considering the significant fees paid for other defenders like Harry Maguire, Wesley Fofana, and Josko Gvardiol in recent years. Everton have made it clear they won’t sell Branthwaite unless a substantial offer comes in.
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Branthwaite’s future in the spotlight
Dyche emphasized that the arrival of O’Brien, who is an inch taller than Branthwaite, is not related to the latter’s future at the club. He said,
“I’m very surprised that people have put two and two together at Everton Football Club. What I would suggest is that it’s nothing to do with that (the O’Brien transfer in relation to Branthwaite). It’s just about modeling the club with the finances available and trying to bring in players who can add depth and develop the club.”
Dyche’s comments come after Everton’s 3-0 loss to Coventry City, where Michael Keane and Mason Holgate played as the centre-back pair. Despite the rumors, Dyche remains confident in keeping Branthwaite for the season.
With Manchester United’s pursuit ongoing, it remains to be seen whether Everton will be able to retain Branthwaite, who is seen as a crucial part of their future plans.
