Report: Everton Plan Move for Belgium Defender if Branthwaite Leaves | OneFootball

Branthwaite’s Future Sparks Defensive Hunt

As Everton prepare for a potentially transformative summer, all eyes turn to the future of their standout defender Jarrad Branthwaite. The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the most coveted young centre-backs in the Premier League, and Manchester United are circling with intent once more. According to TEAMtalk, Branthwaite “is ready to say ‘yes’ to the transfer, on the proviso that one condition is met.”

With Everton facing the real possibility of losing a player central to their recent defensive solidity, the club is proactively exploring replacements. High on their radar is Belgium international Koni De Winter – a 22-year-old Serie A star currently plying his trade at Genoa.

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De Winter, a versatile defender with the ability to play at centre-half or full-back, has caught the attention of multiple suitors across Europe. Everton now “have joined the list of clubs chasing Genoa centre-half Koni De Winter as a potential heir,” according to TEAMtalk’s sources.

Friedkin Group Investment to Shape New Era

Everton’s ambition under majority shareholder Dan Friedkin is no secret. The American businessman, who took control of the club via The Friedkin Group, is expected to bankroll a squad reshuffle aimed at pushing the Toffees back into the Premier League’s upper echelons.

“The Toffees are gearing up for what they hope will be a pretty transformative summer,” as TEAMtalk puts it. But it’s not just about big signings – the core of the summer strategy hinges on player retention, especially Branthwaite.

Should he depart, De Winter appears to be the preferred choice to fill the void. The Belgian is reportedly admired for his “great versatility and defensive intelligence” and is “already considered an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen their backline.”

TEAMtalk adds: “We’ve been informed that scouts are following him closely and is considered a ‘strong candidate’ to reinforce their defence.”

De Winter’s Rising Stock in Europe

Born in Antwerp in June 2002, De Winter’s footballing journey began at Zulte Waregem before Juventus swooped for him in 2018. He made history as “the first Belgian to represent the Old Lady” and quickly earned a reputation as a reliable youth prospect. His breakthrough came when he debuted in the Champions League in 2021, becoming Juve’s youngest starter in the competition at 19 years and 179 days.

After a loan spell at Empoli, Genoa signed him permanently for just €8m (£6.8m) – a move that now looks like a masterstroke. With his value now reportedly set at around €25m (£21m), Genoa could secure a healthy profit if they decide to sell amid growing demand.

Premier League sides, Bundesliga clubs, and Serie A outfits are all circling. TEAMtalk note: “Sources revealed to us earlier this month that representatives of both Inter Milan and Premier League Wolves have made several recent checks on the two-times capped Belgium defender.”

With “several Bundesliga sides” also interested, competition for his signature is heating up. Yet Everton seem determined to stay at the front of the queue.

Wider Transfer Activity Underway at Goodison

While the spotlight is firmly on the Branthwaite-De Winter axis, Everton’s transfer work extends beyond defence. Midfield and wide options are being considered as the club reshapes the squad.

TEAMtalk confirms: “Abdoulaye Doucoure is set to leave Everton at the end of the season with no talks…over a contract extension.” That departure creates a hole in midfield that Everton must address.

Meanwhile, West Brom winger Tom Fellows has emerged as a target. With Jack Harrison’s loan from Leeds nearing its end and no sign of a permanent move, the Toffees are likely to prioritise wide reinforcements.

One name generating buzz is Manor Solomon, whose loan spell at Leeds from Tottenham was reportedly “excellent.” Everton are said to be “making regular checks” on him.

A Summer That Could Define Everton’s Trajectory

If Branthwaite exits, his sale will likely fund multiple reinforcements – but the timing and quality of those incomings will be crucial. De Winter’s experience across Serie A, the Champions League, and Belgium’s senior national side make him a compelling candidate.

TEAMtalk highlight Genoa’s openness to a sale “if a sizeable offer lands on their desk,” despite his contract running until 2028. With Friedkin’s investment and a squad overhaul in the works, it’s clear that Everton are aiming for more than just Premier League survival – they want progression.

But replacing Branthwaite won’t be easy. The club must act smartly in the market, and De Winter may be just the type of calm, intelligent defender needed to anchor the next generation at Goodison Park.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

There’s something refreshing about this proactive approach from Everton. After seasons of reactive transfer windows and scrambling for solutions, it finally looks like there’s a plan – and it’s ambitious. Branthwaite leaving would sting, no doubt. He’s been colossal at the back. But the idea that there’s already a clear target in Koni De Winter offers reassurance.

At 22, De Winter has bags of experience, and his grounding at Juventus speaks volumes. For £21m, that’s a fair price in today’s market – especially when you consider he could be worth double that in a few years.

What’s encouraging is how widespread the scouting seems to be this time. From De Winter to Tom Fellows and Manor Solomon, there’s a mix of youth, versatility, and high potential.

Still, fans will be cautious. We’ve heard grand plans before, only for them to unravel. But with the Friedkin Group’s backing and a recruitment strategy that feels more joined-up, there’s real cause for optimism. Everton can’t afford to get this summer wrong – but this feels like a step in the right direction.