Real Madrid are keeping close tabs on the progress of Everton central defender Jarrad Branthwaite, HITC understands.
Jarrad Branthwaite is enjoying a breakthrough season at Everton and has established himself as one of the most important players in Sean Dyche’s team.
Branthwaite has made 25 appearances in the Premier League for the Toffees this season. He has scored two goals in those games.
The 21-year-old’s performances have been very impressive and have caught the attention of Spanish and European giants Real Madrid.
HITC previously revealed that Manchester United were heading the chase for Branthwaite, but he is also of interest to the likes of Chelsea and Newcastle United.
However, the interest is not just in England, with Madrid looking closely at the former Carlisle United youngster at the behest of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
HITC understands that Madrid were represented at the recent Premier League match between Manchester United and Everton, with Branthwaite their primary focus.
Sources have told HITC that Ancelotti has recommended Branthwaite to his bosses at Madrid and they are taking a close look at the youngster.
Madrid are in the market for a new central defender and have also been looking at the likes of Lille’s Leny Yoro and Benfica’s Antonio Silva, but Branthwaite is considered to be among the best in Europe.
Ancelotti knows Branthwaite well, as he was the Everton boss when he arrived at Goodison Park in January 2020 and gave him his Toffees debut later that year.
In July 2020, Ancelotti told Everton’s official website about Branthwaite after a Premier League match against Aston Villa: “I am really happy with him, he is really young, a kid. But he showed quality and personality and character.
"He is really calm with the ball, really comfortable, and really aggressive without the ball. He can be a fantastic player for us."
Branthwaite, who is hoping to be part of Gareth Southgate’s plans for the Euro 2024 finals, went on to enjoy loan spells at Blackburn Rovers and Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven.
HITC is told by sources close to Everton they would want a deal in excess of £70 million for Branthwaite, although the ongoing questions over the club ownership could have an impact on that.