AliousLiverpool eye Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite as defensive concerns mount, but Toffees set firm stance
Liverpool are weighing up a move for Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite as Arne Slot prepares to reinforce his defensive options, though Everton remain adamant their prized asset will not be sold in January.
The Reds have been forced into the market following a turbulent spell for Ibrahima Konaté, who has faced criticism after poor showings in defeats to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray. The Frenchman’s form, coupled with ongoing speculation linking him to Real Madrid, has left Slot with limited defensive stability. Matters worsened when backup centre-half Giovanni Leoni suffered a cruciate ligament injury, leaving Liverpool short of reliable cover.
According to Football Insider, Liverpool have already identified several targets, with 22-year-old Branthwaite viewed as one of the most attractive long-term options. The England Under-21 international has emerged as a standout performer for Everton and recently signed a new deal keeping him at the Hill Dickinson Stadium until 2030.
Despite this, Liverpool—along with rivals Manchester United—are closely tracking his progress. Former United and Blackburn scout Mick Brown confirmed Branthwaite is firmly “on the radar” at Anfield, though he admitted a January switch is unrealistic.
“Branthwaite will definitely be monitored by Liverpool,” Brown explained. “I’d be shocked if he moved in January—Everton simply won’t want to sell. He’s recovering from an injury, and they’ll want to see how he comes back. Long-term though, he fits the profile.”
Brown also pointed out that Branthwaite plays in the same left-sided central defensive role as Virgil van Dijk, meaning Liverpool may not view him as an immediate fix for their Konaté dilemma. Instead, the plan could be to allow him to develop under Van Dijk’s guidance.
Everton, for their part, are determined to resist interest. Under David Moyes, the Toffees have built strong momentum since January and will not entertain losing a key player midway through the season. Still, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham are all monitoring the situation with a view to testing Everton’s resolve in the summer.
For now, Everton’s stance is clear: Branthwaite is central to their long-term project. But with Premier League giants circling, the defender’s future will likely remain one of the transfer sagas to watch over the next 12 months.
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