Chelsea are reportedly keen admirers of Manchester United target and Everton star Jarrad Branthwaite, as per Football Insider.
The Blues currently have Levi Colwill and Jorrel Hato as specialist left centre-back options. Moreover, Aaron Anselmino can provide cover in this position if needed but has struggled to break into Xabi Alonso’s starting line-up.
Hato, on the other hand, has featured in the LWB position this season. So, considering the Spanish boss has preferred to deploy a back three system, Chelsea are seemingly planning to add further depth to the LCB position.
Football Insider report that after being impressed by Branthwaite’s promising performances this season, Chelsea are keen admirers of him and could make a move to sign him next year.
Apart from the West London club, Manchester United are also in this race, while top overseas clubs have registered their interest in him.
However, Everton have no intention of letting their star player leave and are in a strong position to demand a big fee if they are forced to cash-in, with the player’s existing deal set to run until 2030.
Branthwaite is a 6ft 5in tall left-footed centre-back but can provide cover in the left-back position if needed. He is quick, strong, good in the air, comfortable playing out from the back, and is efficient in defensive contributions.
Battle
Man Utd currently have Lisandro MartÃnez and Ayden Heaven as specialist LCB options; moreover, Harry Maguire can provide cover in this area if needed.
However, MartÃnez has entered the final few months of his current contract, and Heaven is still very young and needs time to develop. On the other hand, Maguire has also entered the final year of his current contract and has reached the twilight of his career.
Therefore, United could do with signing a new centre-back. Branthwaite, valued at around £38m by Transfermarkt, is a Premier League-proven player and is set to enter the prime stage of his career.
Therefore, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Chelsea or Man Utd should either club purchase him. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the West London club or the Old Trafford club eventually…
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