Liverpool are set to deploy their scouts to watch on-loan Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite.
Branthwaite is currently impressing during a season-long stint in the Netherlands with PSV Eindhoven. And according to The Daily Mail, Liverpool want to take a closer look at him.
They claim that two things have piqued the Reds interest here – Branthwaite’s home-grown status, and his left-footedness. Both not reason alone to buy the 20-year-old, they obviously think he’s a player, too.
So, reportedly, do Manchester United and Roma. United are said to be attracted to Branthwaite for the same reasons as Liverpool. Roma meanwhile are claimed to have been ‘regularly checking’ on the Cumbrian’s progress. All three clubs are reportedly set to ramp up their monitoring of the youngster.
Liverpool looking to address their defence
With Liverpool’s issues in central defence now laid bare this season, expect more links to players such as Branthwaite.
Without Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, Liverpool were a mess at the weekend against Wolves. Joel Matip’s future is now said to be in the balance, while Joe Gomez no longer looks good enough.
As a result, it’s fair to assume that the Reds are scouring the market for a potential signing.
Some Reds fans may wish to see higher-profile names been thrown into the mix, and they probably will be. But for the reasons stated by The Mail, Branthwaite could be a good option.
Young, English and impressing at a good level, he’s certainly worth considering. The only obvious draw-back is that Everton are likely to be hugely resistant to selling one of their young talents to Liverpool.
Still, at the right price, maybe that’s something they’d consider. The Mail report that PSV had a £15m bid turned down by the Toffees in January, so they’re not willing to sell on the cheap.
With good reason too. Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has worked with some ridiculously gifted players in his time, he knows quality when he sees it. The legendary coach certainly saw something in Branthwaite during his time at Everton, handing the then 18-year-old his debut.
“He has a really good character apart from the quality he is able to show,” Ancelotti said via Yorkshire Live in July 2020. “It’s just the start. As I’ve said before we have to be patient with him, but he’s a really good defender. Good with the ball, always focused.” If he’s good enough for Don Carlo, he’s good enough for us. One to keep an eye on, Reds.
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