According to the latest report from British media outlet The Mail, Liverpool Football Club is keeping a close eye on Everton's center back Branthwaite and could potentially make an offer close to Everton's asking price in the upcoming winter transfer window (January) as a way of messing up Manchester United's plans to bring in the young center back.
Manchester United have been taking a keen interest in Brathwaite and plan to launch another bid for Everton next summer. However, their plans could be challenged by Liverpool's intervention. In July this year, Manchester United have submitted a second offer to Everton for as much as £50 million, but the offer was rejected by Everton. Everton, for their part, are hoping to secure a transfer fee of more than £70 million from the transfer of Branthwaite.
Interest in Branswetter has been strong on the part of Liverpool, who realize that the young 22-year-old center back is the ideal candidate to boost the team's defensive prowess. According to reports, Liverpool may try to bring in Branswetter in January and make an offer close to Everton's mental expectations. Although Everton have just completed the acquisition of a stake in Goodison Park, it seems that Branswetter does not intend to extend his contract with the team. His current contract expires in June 2027, and Everton clearly cannot match the £160,000-a-week wages that Manchester United and Liverpool are willing to offer him.
Brathwaite made his first appearance of the season on Saturday after missing some time due to a setback in his recovery from a hernia operation. His return breathed new life into Everton and helped the side to their first Premier League win of the season at home to Crystal Palace. The win not only boosted Everton's morale, but also further emphasized Branswetter's value.
For Liverpool, bringing in Branswetter would be a wise choice. His youth, potential and immediate potential all fit Liverpool's criteria for attraction. However, they are also facing competition from Manchester United and Everton's high transfer fee demands. Therefore, Liverpool will need to make a wise decision during the winter transfer window to ensure that they can successfully bring in the young center-back.
