Everton are hoping to agree a new long-term contract with Jarrad Branthwaite after the defender’s impressive introduction to the side.
Branthwaite has shone since being given a chance in the Everton side under Sean Dyche, ranking fourth in the Premier League for ball recoveries among centre-backs and joint-fifth for interceptions, despite being an unused substitute for the opening two games.
The 21-year-old helped Everton to a first win of the campaign at Brentford last weekend and the Toffees are now working on a deal to secure his long-term future, according to The Athletic.
Branthwaite returned to Everton this summer from an encouraging loan spell at PSV Eindhoven, where his form in the Eredivisie attracted scouts from Manchester United, Liverpool and Roma.
The left-sided centre-back was included in the England squad that won the u-21 European Championship during the summer and has since taken his chance at Everton, following the summer exits of Conor Coady and Yerry Mina.
Branthwaite’s current contact expires in 2025, but the club hold an option to extend that deal for a further season. However, there is a desire to reward the centre-back for his emergence this season with a new deal.
