Manchester City Set To Compete With Manchester United For This Everton Star: Good Move For Pep? | OneFootball

Manchester City are looking to surprise everyone as they enter the race to sign Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, as per Football Insider. The former club want to add the defender to the ranks and improve their backline ahead of next season.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – APRIL 02: Centre-back defender Jarrad Branthwaite of Everton reacts during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Everton FC at the St. James Park on April 02, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Branthwaite played an integral role in helping the Toffees avoid getting dragged into the relegation zone this season. He featured in 41 games and netted three goals. He averaged 1.9 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, and 4.3 clearances per game (stats via whoscored).

The English defender is an intelligent reader who tries to defuse the threat before building. He remains concentrated throughout the game and marks his dominance in aerial duels. However, he needs to improve his passing accuracy if he wants to play for a top-tier club.

A possible replacement for John Stones?

Manchester City already have a star-studded backline ready to take onto the field next season. However, John Stones is linked to an exit as he is unhappy at the club. He is frustrated due to a lack of game time and won’t mind changing the club.

Hence, the Citizens are looking to replace the veteran defender with Jarrad Branthwaite. The investment in the latter could be a good move in the long term. The 21-year-old has already proven his worth in the English league and has a lot of room to improve.

Boss Pep Guardiola’s side will have to battle with arch-rivals Manchester United as they are also highly interested in acquiring the emerging talent. Whatever happens, Everton will surely demand a premium fee to sanction the move in the summer.