Sean Dyche has remained tight-lipped over the potential of Jarrad Branthwaite signing a new contract at Everton, despite reports of him possibly extending his stay at Goodison Park.
Luke Edwards had said that the Toffees would be desperate to tie down the defender to a new contract [Transfer Gossip Daily, 27 September] after earning so many plaudits for his performances this season.
The 21-year-old has started four of Everton’s opening six matches in the Premier League as well as their win over Aston Villa in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday (27 August). But as his current contract doesn’t expire until 2025, Dyche has refused to get drawn into speculation over his future.
Speaking in a press conference, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo (28 September) he said: “He’s got a long-term deal at the moment, he’s settled, playing, going nicely.
“He’s another young player. He went out for a season abroad last season and done well. He’s getting sharper, seeing the picture better but still not over-coaching for sure, he’s going along nicely and continues to grow as he is doing.”
The uncertain financial situation currently at Goodison Park means it is very unlikely that many new contracts will be signed until the potential takeover by 777 Partners is completed, as Farhad Moshiri is unlikely to invest any more money into a club he’s looking to sell.
But as soon as it is possible, the Toffees have to look to secure the long-term future of Branthwaite as for such a young defender, he has impressed every time he has stepped foot on the pitch for the Toffees and could be crucial to their future success.
Dyche is a master of managing expectations and he is doing that excellent in terms of ensuring there isn’t too much pressure on the 21-year-old from external factors such as the media or supporters while instilling plenty of confidence into the young man.
Given the reported interest from Manchester United this summer [Simon Jones, 31 July] the Toffees need to ensure that Branthwaite isn’t entering the final year or his contract next summer as there will be plenty of other clubs now interested in poaching the defender, given his excellent start to the season.