Chelsea Eye £70m England Star Jarrad Branthwaite in Summer Swoop – But Everton David Moyes Is Not Letting Go Easily

As the summer transfer window approaches, Chelsea FC is gearing up for what could be a pivotal signing. The Blues have set their sights on Everton’s highly-rated young centre-back, Jarrad Branthwaite. Valued at a hefty £70 million, this 22-year-old England international is attracting serious attention across the Premier League, with Chelsea emerging as the frontrunners in a potential battle for his signature.

Last year, Manchester United made multiple attempts to secure Branthwaite’s services. Despite bids reportedly reaching £45 million plus £5 million in add-ons, Everton stood firm, rejecting all offers and demanding the full £70 million valuation. While United’s efforts cooled following those rejections, Chelsea now see an opportunity to swoop in with a compelling advantage — Champions League football.

Branthwaite, who has made a notable impact since his England debut in June last year, is said to be eager to compete at the highest level. Playing in Europe’s premier club competition is a dream for many young players, and Chelsea’s qualification for the Champions League this season puts them in a stronger negotiating position. This competitive edge could be the deciding factor in convincing the defender to join Stamford Bridge instead of Old Trafford.

However, Chelsea face stiff resistance from Everton manager David Moyes, who remains determined to keep hold of his defensive gem. With senior defender James Tarkowski sidelined due to a hamstring injury, losing Branthwaite would leave the Toffees dangerously thin at the back. Moyes’s priority is maintaining defensive stability as Everton navigate the challenges of the Premier League.

Everton themselves are not just focused on retaining their talent. The club is actively pursuing other reinforcements to bolster the squad. They are in the final stages of negotiating a new contract with veteran midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye, who has been a key figure in their midfield setup. Additionally, Everton are reportedly in talks with Brazilian club Flamengo to secure the signing of promising young midfielder Carlos Alcaraz, signaling their intent to strengthen across the pitch.

Branthwaite’s journey to prominence has been impressive. After breaking into the Everton first team, his performances earned him an England call-up, highlighting his rapid rise. Despite this, he was surprisingly omitted from Gareth Southgate’s most recent squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, a decision that sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. This exclusion might add further motivation for Branthwaite to prove his worth at the highest club level.

Manchester United’s initial interest in the defender appeared unwavering. Yet, following Lisandro Martinez’s unfortunate ACL injury, coupled with Harry Maguire approaching his 32nd birthday, their defensive plans have shifted. Budgetary constraints have led United to pursue more affordable options, including the January signings of wing-back Patrick Dorgu and teenage defender Ayden Heaven, both viewed as long-term prospects.

Despite these changes, Branthwaite remains one of England’s brightest defensive talents. Chelsea’s summer rebuild includes a focus on refreshing their backline, with the defender’s name topping their wishlist. If the Blues can secure his signature, it would signal a major coup and provide vital defensive solidity for their campaign ahead.

Beyond the tactical and financial aspects, the potential transfer represents a wider narrative in the Premier League — the fierce competition among top clubs to attract and retain the best young talent. For Everton, holding on to Branthwaite could be a statement of intent to build a squad capable of challenging higher up the table. For Chelsea, bringing in a player of his caliber underscores their ambition to return to the pinnacle of English and European football.

Chelsea’s manager and recruitment team have reportedly been impressed not only by Branthwaite’s defensive skills but also his composure, versatility, and potential for growth. At just 22, the defender combines physical strength with excellent reading of the game, attributes that have earned praise from analysts and fans alike.

Everton’s resolve, backed by Moyes’ tactical acumen, suggests this saga will be closely contested. The Toffees will demand a premium price, and their reluctance to sell to a Premier League rival adds another layer of complexity. Chelsea will need to carefully navigate these challenges if they are to finalize a deal.

Fans of both clubs eagerly await further developments, knowing that this transfer could have significant implications for the Premier League’s defensive landscape. For Branthwaite, the choice is not just about money or prestige — it’s about the opportunity to grow, compete, and make a lasting impact on the game.

The summer promises to be an intriguing chapter in English football, with Jarrad Branthwaite’s future one of the hottest topics in transfer circles. Will Chelsea’s Champions League allure and ambition be enough to sway the young defender? Or will David Moyes and Everton stand firm, keeping their defensive jewel in Merseyside?

One thing is certain: the pursuit of Branthwaite highlights the dynamic and fiercely competitive nature of football transfers, where every detail counts, and the stakes have never been higher.