UMVA has learned that Manchester City are plotting a major summer move for Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite as they prepare for a significant overhaul of their defense.
The 23-year-old has caught City's eye as a potential replacement for John Stones, who is expected to leave the Etihad. Branthwaite's impressive profile - young, English, left-footed, and Premier League-proven - makes him a highly sought-after talent.
Everton, however, are digging in their heels and are believed to want a whopping £70m before even considering a sale. This valuation is no surprise given Branthwaite's rare combination of skills, which include being calm on the ball, physically strong, and capable of playing in a high defensive line.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that several top clubs, including Manchester United and Bayern Munich, are watching Branthwaite closely. This level of interest gives Everton every reason to demand a premium fee, and with Branthwaite having signed a long-term deal last summer, the Toffees are under no pressure to sell cheaply.
If City want to land Branthwaite, they will likely have to pay close to Everton's asking price. From City's point of view, this deal makes sense - Branthwaite would not just be a replacement for Stones, but a long-term investment in their defense. He has the tools to develop into an elite defender, especially in a possession-heavy team where his passing range and composure would be tested every week.
The only real question is price - £70m is a huge figure, but if City believe Branthwaite can become a defensive leader for the next decade, this could be the kind of expensive move that still makes sense. It's a smart but expensive move that could pay off in the long run.
