Everton value Defender at £70m as Real Madrid weigh up options | OneFootball

Real Madrid Eye Branthwaite But Everton Hold Firm

Real Madrid’s defensive concerns have triggered discussions over a new centre-back signing this summer, with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite emerging as a potential target. However, as TEAMtalk reports, Everton remain resolute in their valuation of the young English defender, placing any prospective deal in a complex negotiation zone.

Branthwaite’s Rapid Rise and Real Madrid’s Interest

Carlo Ancelotti’s links with Branthwaite go back to his Everton tenure, when he handed the youngster his Premier League debut. Now, with Los Blancos in need of defensive reinforcements, the England international has been identified as a potential recruit.

Eder Militao’s injury-enforced absence until the summer, coupled with the contract situations of Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba—both of whom will see their deals expire in 2026—means Madrid are proactively scouting for defensive options. While the Spanish giants are also assessing right-back reinforcements, Branthwaite’s name has been floated in discussions.

Photo: IMAGO

Sources confirm that Real Madrid’s top brass have talked about the Everton starlet, yet no formal approach has been made to either the player or his club. Ancelotti is well aware of Branthwaite’s abilities, but as TEAMtalk notes, he does not have the final say in transfer business. With his own future at the Bernabeu uncertain, any potential transfer might even outlast him.

Everton’s Valuation and Manchester United’s Past Interest

Branthwaite is a player Everton view as central to their future. The 21-year-old has been outstanding for the Toffees this season, forming a solid defensive pairing and showcasing composure beyond his years.

Everton rejected interest from Manchester United last summer and have maintained a firm stance since then. The Merseyside club value Branthwaite at over £70 million, and with his contract running until 2027—plus the option of an additional year—they are in a strong bargaining position.

David Moyes, reinstalled at Goodison Park, remains keen to retain the defender but acknowledged Everton’s financial situation when asked about the possibility of a sale.

“Jarrad has done really well,” Moyes said. “There are moments when he can do better, there are times he still plays like a young centre-back but has an awful lot going for him…”

Everton’s Financial Landscape and Branthwaite’s Future

Financial uncertainty has plagued Everton in recent seasons, with Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) looming over their transfer dealings. However, TEAMtalk states the club believes they are now compliant and will not be forced into a cut-price sale of Branthwaite.

Moyes echoed a pragmatic stance on Everton’s finances:

“With PSR, I don’t know all the stuff but we still have some work to do in the summer. I was aware of it when I came in but I’m hoping we’re beginning to stop thinking about that now.

“We’re beginning to think about moving forward, what we’re going to do. I think we’ve got a bill to pay, hopefully we pay that bill then we’re in the clear.”

While financial realities may still play a role in shaping Everton’s transfer business, the Toffees are expecting a boost from their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. Increased ticket revenue and potential stadium naming rights deals will contribute to their long-term stability.

If Everton were facing relegation, the equation might have changed dramatically. However, their recent upturn in form has left them comfortably 14 points clear of the bottom three, making an enforced sale far less likely.

Real Madrid’s Defensive Shopping List

Branthwaite is not the only centre-back on Madrid’s radar. Tottenham’s Cristian Romero is another name being discussed at the Bernabeu, with sources suggesting he may be available for a lower fee than the Everton star.

The 26-year-old Argentine, contracted until 2027, has been linked with Madrid in the past. While Spurs have been reluctant to sell, there is a growing belief that a deal could be struck at the right price.

As for Branthwaite, Everton are digging in. While Madrid’s interest is real, the Toffees’ valuation and financial standing suggest that any deal will require a significant outlay.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Everton fans will likely have mixed feelings about this news. On one hand, Branthwaite’s name being linked to Real Madrid is a testament to his incredible progress. Few centre-backs in the Premier League have shown his level of composure, aerial dominance, and ability to play out from the back at such a young age. However, the thought of losing him just as Everton are beginning to stabilise under Moyes is a bitter pill to swallow.

The financial angle adds another layer of complexity. Everton’s PSR struggles have been well-documented, and while there’s optimism around their compliance, the club must still tread carefully. If a bid in the region of £70 million comes in, can the Toffees realistically turn it down, given their ongoing squad rebuilding efforts?

Madrid’s interest makes sense. They are transitioning into a younger squad, and Branthwaite would fit the mould of a long-term defensive leader. That said, Madrid are known for playing the long game in negotiations. Unless they meet Everton’s valuation, this could be another drawn-out saga that doesn’t necessarily end with Branthwaite leaving Goodison Park.

For now, Everton fans will hope that their club remains steadfast. If Branthwaite does go, they must ensure it is on their terms, with the right reinvestment plan in place. If he stays, it’s a sign that Everton are finally resisting the urge to cash in on their brightest talents.