Tottenham snubbed as top Cristian Romero replacement target signs new deal

Jarrad Branthwaite has signed a new long-term deal at Everton in a summer transfer blow to Tottenham.

The centre-back has extended his stay at the Toffees until 2030 and will remain integral to their defence under David Moyes.

“I’m over the moon,” Branthwaite said. “It’s been something we’ve been talking about since the end of the season and to get it signed now is something I’m really excited about.

“The trust the Club’s put in me and how many games I’ve played over the past two seasons has made it quite an easy decision for me to stay and to keep progressing as a player.

“I know the Club. I feel loved by the players – we’ve got a good group here – and the fans. Over the past few years, I’ve seen the impact the fans have on us as a team and how much it means to them.

“And, obviously, with the new stadium we’ve got here, the new ownership and the new manager, it’s an exciting project and it’s something I want to be part of.

“Moving to the new stadium together and having that first game at home is something we’re all looking forward to. We want to go again and push for a good season.”

Manchester United failed in a pursuit for Branthwaite last summer, with Chelsea one reportedly interested party this time round.

Spurs were also keen on the Englishman, who has featured 86 times for Everton, but have now missed out on a defensive target.

Their squad plans could be affected by Branthwaite’s decision to stay at Everton amid uncertainty over the future of Cristian Romero.

talkSPORT reported in March that the Argentinian is open to a move to Atletico Madrid.

Atletico boss Diego Simeone is a big admirer of the 27-year-old, who has two years remaining on his current deal in north London.

Spurs could therefore be open to an offer in preparation for a debut season with Thomas Frank as their head coach.

They have already signed Kevin Danso from Lens in a £21million deal after his loan spell during the second half of the 2024/25 season.

Fellow defender Luka Vuskovic has also joined Spurs from Hajduk Split in a £12m move, which was agreed in September 2023.

At the opposite end of the pitch, talkSPORT understands Spurs are interested in signing Mohammed Kudus from West Ham.

The winger is expected to leave the London Stadium this summer.

Eberechi Eze has also been discussed at Spurs, but the Crystal Palace star could join their north London rivals Arsenal instead.