Everton’s transfer business has gone under the radar this summer and Sean Dyche’s side new arrivals have looked sharp in pre-season.
Everton wrapped up their summer preparations with a friendly clash against Roma at Goodison Park on Saturday.
New signings Jake O’Brien, Tim Iroegbunam and Iliman Ndiaye all played a part in the game, while Jesper Lindstrom was on the bench for the Toffees.
The new trio have settled in well on Merseyside and O’Brien in particular has caught the eye.
The 23-year-old was signed in a £17million deal and many theorised that he was bought to replace Jarrad Branthwaite.
Everton’s star defender has been linked with a move to Manchester United, but it is yet to be seen whether the Red Devils continue their pursuit after securing a deal for Matthijs de Ligt.
United have already submitted two bids for Branthwaite but are yet to match Everton’s £70million valuation.
James Tarkowski on Jarrad Branthwaite future
Branthwaite has not been involved in Everton’s pre-season preparations with the 22-year-old struggling with injury.
In his absence, O’Brien has been partnered by James Tarkowski in the heart of defence.
The 31-year-old was a key player for Dyche’s side last season alongside Branthwaite and he has now opened up on his fellow defender’s future.
After the game against Roma, Tarkowski said “I’m not privy to all of the conversations going on about Jarrad. I think, for me, I spent a season playing with him and he was outstanding.
“He is still young and he’s still going to improve but we all know the qualities he’s got as a player.
“So personally, I hope he stays here and I get to spend some time with him on the pitch again this year. I know he is dealing with a couple of issues right now, but hopefully he will be back involved with the lads soon and back on the pitch because he was such an important player last year.”
What next for Jarrad Branthwaite?
Jarrad Branthwaite has a contract at Goodison Park until 2027 and is refusing to sign an extension unless Everton match the £160,000 per week wages offered by United.
READ MORE: Everton target ‘Drogba-esque’ striker who was at Goodison Park this week
With time running out for United to strike a deal this summer and De Ligt arriving as a new signing, it is looking more and more likely that Branthwaite will stay put at Goodison Park.
Their transfer business has been good so far, but that could be their biggest positive of the summer.
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