Liverpool ready to make move for Jarrad Branthwaite in January

One of Everton’s best players could be set to make a move to one of the club’s biggest rivals. According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool will pursue a move to sign centre back Jarrad Branthwaite once the transfer window reopens in January.

Branthwaite was strongly linked to Manchester United in the last transfer window. He has battled injuries to start the 2024/25 campaign. Branthwaite has played just one of Everton’s eight matches so far this season.

Liverpool looking ahead

With Virgil van Dijk still in the prime of his career and a rotating cast of reliable partners, Liverpool have one of the best centre back combinations in European soccer. However, the club knows that Van Dijk’s prime will not last forever.

Liverpool are reportedly looking to bring in another top young centre back to learn from Van Dijk and take over for the Dutchman when he leaves.

Basically, the club are trying to “future proof” their back line in case Van Dijk drops off or leaves the club earlier than expected.

Jarrad Branthwaite has been identified as the best player on the market right now to come in and learn from Van Dijk.

Man Utd vs. Liverpool transfer battle

If the Daily Mail report is right, Liverpool could make a move for Branthwaite as soon as this January.

Manchester United were very close to signing Branthwaite in the offseason. However, the Red Devils were unable to meet Everton’s high asking price.

It’s unclear whether Man Utd will go in for him again in January if Liverpool make an attempt to sign Branthwaite, but it’s likely.

Man Utd are no longer as restricted by FFP rules, as they were in the summer. Also, a big signing in January could be exactly what the club needs to bring their fans back on track.

Bad news for Everton

While signing Branthwaite would be a massive boost for Manchester United, it could be a killer for Everton.

The Toffees’ only win of the season came when Branthwaite started for them. They are out of the relegation zone now, but most soccer betting sites still give them good chances of getting relegated this season.

If they sell Branthwaite, those sports betting odds are sure to get even more likely.

Conclusion

On the bright side for Everton, if they do sell Branthwaite, they will get a huge payout. The club wanted over £60m ($115m) for him in the offseason. They will probably ask for even more when selling him in the middle of the season.