Liverpool are yet to make contact with Everton over a deal for Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the transfer deadline, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The outlet reported on its website on Monday (19 August) that Toffees insiders and sources close to the defender’s camp have been left bemused by speculation linking him with a move to Anfield.
Sean Dyche’s side have already rejected two bids from Manchester United for the England international this summer, insisting they will not be bullied into sanctioning his exit unless a big-money offer arrives at Goodison Park.
Will Jarrad Branthwaite exit Everton amid Liverpool transfer rumours?
The speculation linking Branthwaite with a move across Merseyside has been much more fan-lead over the last couple of days, with little to no genuine reports to suggest the England international could cross Stanley Park.
Losing the centre-back would be bad enough in the final days of the transfer window, but Toffees supporters would be left fuming if one of the best and brightest talents was sold to their local rivals so late in the summer.
Arne Slot’s side would almost certainly have to pay a premium for the 22-year-old given the two club’s relationship and it would be interesting to see if the player himself would even be willing to make that step over the divide.
Hopefully, Brantwaite won’t ever have the opportunity to make that decision and will remain at Goodison long beyond the end of the summer window, even if the Toffees have to battle to keep his services.
Although he was missing from the Blues’ first game of the season against Brighton, there is hope that he will be back in action sooner rather than later.