In the midst of an injury crisis, Manchester United’s pursuit of defensive reinforcement faced a setback as Jarrad Branthwaite, eyed as a replacement for the injured Lisandro Martinez, extended his contract with Everton. Erik ten Hag, grappling with a series of injuries, had identified Martinez’s absence as a crucial gap to fill. Martinez, currently recovering from a foot injury that necessitated a second operation, could potentially be sidelined until 2024. Manchester United had set their sights on Branthwaite to address this gap. However, their hopes were dashed when Everton announced the extension of Branthwaite’s contract until 2027.
Branthwaite’s potential was evident during his loan spell with Dutch side PSV in the previous season. The Eredivisie outfit had expressed interest in securing him on a permanent transfer. Yet, Sean Dyche, Everton’s manager, emphasized Branthwaite’s significance as a long-term prospect. Despite missing some preseason action due to fitness concerns, Branthwaite impressed upon his return to the side.
“He’s someone we were monitoring last year (even when he was out on loan). We were hearing good things about him,” Dyche stated. “We made it clear that we wanted him to come back in pre-season and to do what he does in front of us because you can only tell so much through a screen as the stories we heard were very positive.”
Manchester United’s search for defensive stability continues, but for now, Branthwaite remains a vital part of Everton’s plans, reinforcing their backline for the years to come.