Jarrad Branthwaite backed for Manchester City move as Everton demand £70m

Manchester City have been encouraged to make a move for Jarrad Branthwaite as Enzo Maresca begins planning his first season in charge, although Everton's reported £70m valuation could prove a significant obstacle.

The England international remains one of the most highly regarded young centre-backs in the Premier League despite enduring an injury-disrupted campaign that severely limited his appearances last season.

Reports have linked City with an interest in the 23-year-old as they consider long-term defensive options.

Branthwaite's profile aligns with many of the qualities City traditionally look for in defenders.

Standing out for his composure in possession, aerial strength and ability to defend large spaces, the Everton academy graduate has already demonstrated he can perform at Premier League level when fully fit.

Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor recently described a potential move to the Etihad Stadium as a "no-brainer", arguing that Branthwaite possesses the attributes needed to thrive in a possession-dominant system.

Having followed Everton closely during Branthwaite's breakthrough years, his 2023/24 campaign remains the strongest evidence of his potential. That season saw him establish himself as one of the league's most promising defenders and earn his first senior England call-up.

While the talent is obvious, Branthwaite's recent injury record explains why some clubs may hesitate before committing a fee approaching £70m.

The defender missed a significant portion of last season after undergoing hamstring surgery and later suffered another setback that ruled him out of England's World Cup plans.

Everton have reportedly taken extensive measures to ensure he is fully prepared for the new campaign, including specialist rehabilitation work aimed at restoring full fitness ahead of pre-season.

Branthwaite is young, home-grown and already proven in the Premier League, three factors that significantly increase market value.

However, it remains too early to know whether clubs will be willing to meet such demands given the uncertainty surrounding his recent fitness issues.

Manchester United's admiration for Branthwaite is well documented.

The Old Trafford club pursued the defender aggressively in 2024, submitting multiple offers before eventually switching their attention elsewhere. Although United strengthened their defence through other signings, reports suggest they continue to monitor his development.

That could create competition if Everton become open to negotiations later in the window.

For now, though, the Merseyside club are under little pressure to sell. Branthwaite signed a long-term contract last year, leaving Everton in a strong negotiating position.

Much will depend on Branthwaite's fitness during pre-season and whether Manchester City decide to prioritise a centre-back signing. Everton are expected to resist any approaches unless their valuation is met.

Should City advance their interest, negotiations are unlikely to be straightforward given Everton's strong contract position and the defender's importance to David Moyes' plans. A fully fit start to the season would only strengthen the Toffees' resolve to keep hold of one of their most valuable assets.

Would you pay £70m for Jarrad Branthwaite, or do his recent injury problems make that valuation too risky?