AliousAlan Hutton has received information suggesting Tottenham Hotspur might attempt to outmaneuver Manchester United in their pursuit of Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.
In an exclusive conversation with Football Insider, the former Spurs defender expressed his belief that Branthwaite would be a good fit for Tottenham’s defense, particularly given the team’s recent struggles with defensive depth.
While Tottenham has long shown interest in the 21-year-old Everton standout, who was considered unfortunate to miss out on Gareth Southgate’s final England squad for Euro 2024, Manchester United has appeared to be the frontrunner.
The Red Devils recently made a £35 million bid, which Everton promptly rejected.
Branthwaite, who played a crucial role in Sean Dyche’s Everton side that comfortably avoided relegation despite an eight-point deduction for financial rule breaches, has caught the attention of several top clubs.
Hutton believes the left-footed defender, who recently made his England debut, would be a valuable addition to Ange Postecoglou’s squad. He explained, “Tottenham has at times been short-staffed across the back four.
While their starting defenders are strong, the backup options aren’t quite up to par.”
He added, “Branthwaite had an impressive last season, and with rumors of Cristian Romero potentially leaving, there are several factors that might lead Tottenham to pursue someone like Branthwaite to fill that center-back position.”
Intriguingly, Hutton revealed, “From my contacts at the club, I’ve heard there could be an attempt to hijack the deal from Manchester United.”
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