Sky Bet has dramatically shortened the odds on Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite making a move to Liverpool before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.
The 22-year-old has already attracted attention this summer, with Manchester United having had two bids rejected by Everton for the central defender.
Branthwaite, who impressed during a difficult 2023/24 season at Goodison Park, returned from a successful loan spell at Dutch side PSV Eindhoven to play a key role in Sean Dyche’s squad, starting 35 of Everton’s 38 Premier League matches last season.
His standout performances earned him a call-up to England’s provisional squad for the European Championships.
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However, despite his impressive form, Branthwaite was notably excluded from Gareth Southgate’s final squad alongside other high-profile names such as Jack Grealish and James Maddison.
Following this, Branthwaite remained in the headlines as Manchester United attempted to sign him during their first transfer window under new owners, INEOS.
Despite two offers, both of which fell short of Everton’s asking price, the defender remained with the Toffees.
Now, Sky Bet has cut the odds on Branthwaite leaving Goodison Park, placing Liverpool as a surprise potential destination at 2/1.
United are still in the mix at 3/1, while Manchester City and Real Madrid are also linked with odds of 4/1 and 12/1, respectively.
It is important to note, however, that no credible sources have directly connected Branthwaite to a move to Liverpool at this point.
Betting odds can often shift due to a high volume of bets being placed, making the market less profitable, so the shortening of odds doesn’t necessarily reflect any concrete transfer developments.
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Former Red gives his verdict on Branthwaite transfer links
In October of last year, former Liverpool forward and ECHO columnist John Aldridge encouraged his old club to consider Branthwaite, particularly after his solid performance in the Merseyside derby at Anfield.
Aldridge expressed his belief that the young defender had the potential to become a key player for both Liverpool and England in the future.
“I don’t want to upset any Evertonians by saying this, and whether Liverpool would buy from Everton is another matter, as it rarely happens, but I certainly think he has the ability to go on and become a leading figure and a starter for England.”
Aldridge wrote in his column.
Aldridge pointed out that Liverpool had been on the lookout for a left-sided centre-back during the previous summer transfer window but ultimately did not make a signing.
He acknowledged that Branthwaite could command a significant fee due to the “English premium” typically attached to domestic players.
However, Aldridge also cautioned that moving to Liverpool from Everton could be a difficult transition for the young defender, emphasizing the challenge of switching between the two Merseyside rivals.
Nonetheless, he concluded that Branthwaite had a bright future ahead of him, regardless of where he plays.
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