Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the January transfer window, according to journalist Mark Brus.
Branthwaite has been linked with a departure from Everton regularly over the last few years, and it's no surprise considering the consistent performances he's produced during his time with the Toffees. So far, Everton have resisted any interest in the English centre-back, and they recently tied him down to a new long-term deal, keeping him contracted until 2026.
As we've seen so often in football, players signing new deals doesn't always mean anything when it comes to whether they will still at the club, but what Everton have done is protected his value. The Merseyside club will be under no pressure to offload the defender, so they can demand whatever they like to allow him to head through the exit door.
Tottenham Eyeing Everton Defender Jarrad Branthwaite
According to a report from journalist Brus, Tottenham are one of the sides showing an interest in signing Everton centre-back Branthwaite. Although the England international isn't actively pushing for a move, he does have a desire to join a top club eventually, and Spurs will be able to offer him Champions League football.
Manchester United previous shown the biggest interest in the former Carlisle man, seeing multiple bids rejected, including a £50m bid. The Red Devils remain keen on securing his signature and are expected to place a £60m bid in the January transfer window, but Tottenham are also there in the race to prise him away from the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
It's perhaps been surprising that Everton have managed to keep hold of Branthwaite over the last few years and even convince him to sign a new contract. The Toffees have been struggling towards the bottom of the Premier League table, but Branthwaite hasn't pushed for a departure just yet.