Branthwaite contract talks moving forward

Everton are progressing in talks over a new contract with defender Jarrad Branthwaite.

The 23-year-old is regarded as an important part of the club's plans as they move into a new era at Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Last summer, Manchester United had two bids rejected for the centre-half, the second of which was about £45m.

Club sources had said it would need a “mega” offer to even consider selling the player, who had been valued at £80m.

Branthwaite made 30 Premier League appearances to help the Toffees to finish 13th in the table and his current deal expires in 2027.