Report: Chelsea plot move for England star as Moyes fights to keep him | OneFootball

Chelsea Target Everton’s Branthwaite as Moyes Digs in His Heels

Branthwaite Back on the Radar

Chelsea’s summer transfer plans are quietly beginning to take shape, and a familiar name is again emerging from Merseyside. Jarrad Branthwaite, the 22-year-old England international, is once more attracting Premier League interest—this time from a Chelsea side looking to solidify their defensive core under their latest project as report the Daily Mail.

Branthwaite’s profile has only grown since Everton fended off Manchester United’s advances last summer. Despite bids climbing to £50 million including add-ons, the Toffees refused to part ways with their prized asset. Their valuation hovered around the £70 million mark, a steep but not unimaginable figure given the inflation of English talent in the market.

What sets Chelsea apart this time is their position in the Champions League. That status, absent at Old Trafford, may well give them an upper hand. Branthwaite has reportedly made it clear he sees his future at Europe’s top table—”he felt ready to test himself at the highest level,” according to the original report.

Everton Standing Firm Despite Pressure

David Moyes’ position is resolute. With James Tarkowski picking up a serious injury towards the end of the season, losing Branthwaite would stretch Everton’s defensive depth to breaking point. Moyes’ reluctance to sanction the move is not simply emotional—it’s structural.

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Everton are also juggling other contract and transfer matters. Idrissa Gana Gueye is close to signing a new deal, while discussions are underway with Flamengo regarding Carlos Alcaraz. In a squad already tight on resources, selling Branthwaite—no matter the profit—poses real tactical risks.

United’s Past Interest Clouds the Picture

Branthwaite’s name has lingered around Old Trafford for over a year, but Manchester United’s intentions have recently cooled. “United would turn away from a big-money defensive signing and opt for a cheaper option with potential,” the Mail reported.

Branthwaite’s England Trajectory Still Developing

Branthwaite’s international ambitions add further intrigue. While he earned his England debut last June, he was left out of the latest squad for 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Regular Champions League football at Stamford Bridge could turn Southgate’s head back toward him.

This potential move, if realised, may prove to be a pivotal moment not just for Chelsea but for Branthwaite’s international career. In an era where defenders are judged as much on distribution and positional flexibility as grit, Branthwaite’s calm composure could be the next evolution in Chelsea’s rebuilding.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Chelsea supporter’s lens, this move feels more like necessity than luxury. With the club still in a retooling phase, Branthwaite represents a smarter, age-profiled signing that could bring immediate value and long-term return. While Levi Colwill and Benoît Badiashile have shown flashes, neither has yet locked down the defensive leadership Chelsea crave.

Branthwaite brings both Premier League experience and potential upside. His physicality, aerial presence, and ability to play from the back align well with Chelsea’s tactical ambitions. Champions League football gives the Blues an advantage, and if Moyes can be swayed—likely by a fee north of £60 million—it may be a worthwhile investment.

Everton fans may resent the idea, but financial realities and player ambition often trump sentiment. Chelsea, for once, seem to be approaching this with a clear plan: build a defence capable of competing for trophies in Europe again.