What’s really going on with Liverpool’s interest in Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite

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Liverpool could be in the market for a centre-back or two during 2025.

The Reds arguably could have done with adding a new defender during the summer transfer window just gone.

However, with four quality options at Arne Slot’s disposal, the Liverpool head coach decided to go into the season with what he has.

But with question marks still surrounding Joe Gomez’s future and Virgil van Dijk currently set to leave on a free, there is no way Liverpool can ignore the position again.

As a result, plenty of names are already seemingly being put into the hat to arrive at Anfield either in January or at the end of the season.

One of the more surprising players to have been linked to Liverpool has been Jarrad Branthwaite. And after the Everton man’s return to fitness at the weekend, journalist Fabrizio Romano has been looking into that particular rumour.

What’s going on with Jarrad Branthwaite and Liverpool?

Everton have missed Branthwaite this season. The Toffees did not record a win during their opening six games of the campaign, all of which the 22-year-old missed.

But with the former Carlisle centre-back thrown in for Saturday’s match with Crystal Palace, they finally got three points.

Although the win was obviously not all down to Branthwaite, it also is not a coincidence that Everton were much-improved with him in the side.

There have been claims that Liverpool see Branthwaite as the perfect future partner for Jarell Quansah. His potential is enormous.

And according to Romano, there is likely to be big interest in the England international in 2025. Speaking on The Debrief podcast, though, the transfer expert rejected rumours of an approach from Liverpool.

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“No, to be honest, I’m told at the moment there is nothing concrete,” says Romano. “The situation is still under control for Branthwaite and Everton. There are no negotiations or talks taking place with Liverpool.

“The appreciation from Manchester United remains, but they invested big money on centre-backs.

“So at the moment the situation remains quiet,” he adds.

“Obviously, Everton expect big clubs to arrive in the summer of 2025, so I would not be surprised if some of these big clubs will return for Branthwaite, but as of today, there are no concrete talks or negotiations.”

Liverpool have to sign a new centre-back

With so much focus on the lack of a midfield addition, the fact that Liverpool did not bolster their defence over the summer went a little under the radar.

So far, things have been fine. Ibrahima Konate has been in terrific form, while Gomez and Quansah have already filled in to good effect, too. Van Dijk, meanwhile, looks just as good as ever.

Despite those positives, though, Liverpool need to get cracking on identifying who will be their long-term centre-back pairing.

A lot will obviously depend on how the contract talks with Van Dijk go. But even if the Dutchman does stay, he’s now 33 and will not go on forever. His game time will start needing to be more managed at the very least.

With Gomez surely unsatisfied with the minutes he’s seen so far this season, he could be another playing his last season with the club. As a result, Liverpool have to go for a new centre-back or maybe even two in 2025. If the Everton hurdle can be overcome, then Branthwaite would be a super option.