Everton manager Sean Dyche has dismissed any speculation linking recent signing Jake O’Brien with a possible departure of Jarrad Branthwaite.
The Republic of Ireland international joined Everton for £16.4m ($21m) from Olympique Lyonnais, becoming the club’s fifth summer signing.
Manchester United have shown interest in Branthwaite, making two offers of £35 million (US$44.8 million) plus add-ons and £45 million (US$57.6 million) plus add-ons, both of which were rejected by Everton.
The club highly values the young defender, especially given the significant transfers paid for other defenders such as Harry Maguire, Wesley Fofana and Josko Gvardiol in recent years.
Everton have made it clear they will not sell Branthwaite unless a substantial offer comes in.
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Branthwaite’s future in focus
Dyche stressed that O’Brien’s arrival is not related to Branthwaite’s future at the club. He said:
“I am very surprised that people have put two and two together at Everton Football Club. What I would say is that it has nothing to do with that[the transfer of O’Brien in relation to Branthwaite]. It is simply about shaping the club with the finances available and trying to bring in players who can bring depth and develop the club.”
Dyche’s comments came after Everton’s 3-0 defeat to Coventry City, where Michael Keane and Mason Holgate played as centre-backs.
Despite the rumours, the Toffees boss remains confident of keeping Branthwaite for next season.
With United’s pursuit of the new signing underway, it remains to be seen whether Everton will be able to retain Branthwaite, who is seen as a crucial part of their future plans.
