BBC Sport pundit Pat Nevin has shared his thoughts on the future of one of Everton’s key assets ahead of the summer window.
Realistically, transfers are probably the last thing on Sean Dyche’s mind. After Sunday’s drama-filled but relatively comfortable victory over Nottingham Forest, the Everton boss cut a relieved figure.
It was an impressive all-round performance from the Toffees. They withstood pressure but also posed a threat in transition, something that’s been severely lacking this season.
Dwight McNeil and Idrissa Gana Gueye stole the headlines after their exquisite finishes, but there were several standouts
Pat Nevin suggests ‘huge bid’ is close for Everton sensation
Defensively, Everton were once again resolute. Jordan Pickford made a massive save in the first half, a moment lauded by Jamie Carragher during Sky Sports’ coverage.
James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite were once again solid, and Nevin has since shared his thoughts on the Cumbrian-born defender in his latest BBC Sport Football Extra newsletter.
The former Toffee suggested the 21-year-old was “coolness personified” amidst what was an eventful afternoon.
“Amidst the madness, one player seemed to grow in stature and composure, Jarrad Branthwaite,” he said
“This was no easy task at the centre of a back line that looked shell shocked last Monday, but he was coolness personified.
“I have likened Cole Palmer to a younger Kevin de Bruyne, but I will resist comparing Branthwaite to Virgil van Dijk just yet, but, as 21, there are very few around that look to have his abilities as an all-round defender. This is exceptionally unusual at this age for this position.”
Nevin suggested he expects a “huge” bid to arrive for Everton’s prized asset.
“Top clubs are either keenly watching his meteoric progress or preparing a huge bid. Any decent offer will be almost impossible to turn down by my old cash-strapped club, however much the Evertonians want to say, ‘mind your own business and leave our best player alone’.”
Can Everton hold onto Jarrad Branthwaite this summer?
The board have reportedly slapped a £75million prize tag on Branthwaite. Considering the financial constraints suffocating Premier League clubs, it’s hard to envisage an exit for that sort of money.
But, considering the economic situation at Goodison Park, Everton could well be forced into a sale should a significant fee arrive.
The 21-year-old’s development has been managed perfectly. His loan spell to PSV Eindhoven came at the perfect time, and now the Toffees are certainly reaping the rewards.
But, for now, Let’s hope we aren’t seeing the last of Branthwaite in an Everton shirt.