Chelsea ‘Considering’ £70million Move to Sign 22-year-old Everton Star – Report | OneFootball

Chelsea Target Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite in Potential Blockbuster Move

Chelsea have reportedly set their sights on Jarrad Branthwaite as a priority defensive target, with TEAMtalk revealing the club are “seriously considering a move” for the Everton centre-back. At 22, Branthwaite has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most consistent and impressive young defenders, playing a pivotal role in Everton’s much-improved defensive record last season.

With Enzo Maresca stepping into the Stamford Bridge hot seat, the Italian tactician is thought to be keen on strengthening his backline. According to TEAMtalk, Branthwaite “figures highly on Chelsea’s transfer shortlist,” alongside Ajax’s Jorrel Hato. It’s understood that the Blues view Branthwaite as a direct alternative to Dean Huijsen, who recently chose Real Madrid over West London.

Defensive Stalwart at Goodison Park

Branthwaite’s rise has been meteoric, and Everton’s defensive metrics in the 2024/25 season speak volumes about his influence. Everton recorded 10 clean sheets and conceded the joint-third-fewest goals in the division — statistics largely attributed to Branthwaite’s partnership with James Tarkowski.

Photo: IMAGO

As TEAMtalk notes, “The centre-back combo of Branthwaite and James Tarkowski is arguably one of the strongest in Europe.” David Moyes, now at the Everton helm, is fully aware of what’s at stake and reportedly sees Branthwaite as a cornerstone for the Toffees’ future. With the backing of the club’s new owners, The Friedkin Group, Moyes is determined to resist overtures from any suitor unless their valuation is met in full.

Everton’s Steely Stance on Valuation

Everton are under no financial compulsion to sell. Despite ongoing speculation, the club is reportedly in a strong position regarding Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Branthwaite remains under contract until 2027, with the option for a further year, giving the Merseyside club significant negotiating power.

“Everton won’t budge on Branthwaite valuation,” TEAMtalk reiterates, highlighting the £70m-£75m fee the Toffees are expected to demand. This figure isn’t arbitrary — Everton point to precedents such as Harry Maguire’s £80m transfer, Wesley Fofana’s £75m move to Chelsea, and Marc Guehi’s January valuation of £70m as legitimate comparisons.

Sources close to the player insist that “Branthwaite is not attempting to force an exit,” and the defender is said to be happy at Goodison Park. Furthermore, Everton are preparing to offer him a lucrative new deal to fend off interest from London.

Photo IMAGO

Tottenham and Others Watching Closely

While Chelsea are believed to be leading the race, Tottenham Hotspur have also registered interest. However, as TEAMtalk states, “sources insist the interest from the Europa League winners is not currently as advanced as Chelsea’s.” Spurs may yet enter the fray, particularly as they look to address defensive gaps ahead of next season, but for now, it is Chelsea who appear to be testing Everton’s resolve.

What remains clear is that any move for Branthwaite will require a major financial commitment. No formal bids have been tabled, but the situation remains fluid and could escalate quickly as the transfer window opens.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea fan’s perspective, this is the kind of transfer ambition we’ve been desperate to see. Jarrad Branthwaite represents everything the modern centre-back should be — physically dominant, calm under pressure, and confident with the ball at his feet. With Enzo Maresca now in charge, fans are already dreaming of a more tactically astute and defensively resilient Chelsea. Pairing Branthwaite with Levi Colwill or Wesley Fofana (if he stays fit) could be transformative.

There’s also a bigger picture. This isn’t just a transfer rumour — it’s a statement of intent. After a chaotic few seasons, the club looks to be putting together a long-term vision. Branthwaite’s age, profile, and Premier League experience make him an ideal signing.

Everton’s valuation is steep, but if we’re serious about competing for titles again, this is the level of investment required. Spending £70m on a proven young English talent makes more sense than a gamble abroad. And if we don’t act quickly, someone else will.

With Maresca in place, the project has begun — Branthwaite could be one of its cornerstones. Let’s hope the board sees it the same way.