Arsenal transfer target Jarrad Branthwaite could soon be made available for transfer by Everton, according to talkSPORT.
The radio station report that the Toffees are under pressure to sell players after being hit with a second charge for breaching Financial Fair Play regulations.
Sean Dyche’s side have already been given a 10-point deduction but further punishment could be meted out by the Premier League.
There is now a real danger of relegation so they could be “forced to sell” Branthwaite to balance the books in the future.
Arsenal are not the only team interested in the defender
Branthwaite has been one of Everton’s standout performers this season, having returned from a successful loan spell at Dutch club PSV Eindhoven last summer.
The Gunners have been keeping an eye on the 21-year-old’s performances, but other Premier League clubs are also keen on the player.
TalkSPORT claim that Manchester United have sent scouts on multiple occasions to see Branthwaite in action, while Newcastle are thought to be admirers as well.
Branthwaite has earned praise from a Premier League legend
After Everton’s 1-0 win over West Ham in late October, where the centre-half was handed the man of the match award, Alan Shearer named him in his official Premier League Team of the Week. Writing about the player’s display he said:
“Magnificent at the back. Nothing got past him against West Ham.”
It’s unlikely that Arsenal will make an approach for Branthwaite this month. The priority is to bring in either a midfielder or forward if the budget allows. Manager Mikel Arteta has said it could be a quiet January, although that could still change if they raise funds through player sales. The likes of Eddie Nketiah could be sold for the right price.
