New contract agreed – another top option off the table for Chelsea | OneFootball

One of the most exciting rumours we heard in this summer window so far involved a true Premier League rising star.

Jarrad Branthwaite has been excellent since breaking through at Everton despite the Toffees struggles, and as a young potential England star there’s been a lot of talk about a potential move for him.

Chelsea were linked, with the suggestion he could even be used as a narrow, inverted left full back in Enzo Maresca’s team to back up Marc Cucurella, who desperately needs some cover.

Chelsea may have missed Branthwaite window

Jarrad Branthwaite close to agreement over new contract according to the Athletic.

But it looks like that chance may have escaped us. Top sources including Sky Sports are claiming that the defender is now close to a huge new deal with Everton, which could be signed as soon as early next week.

That would not only kill chances of a move this summer, but would effectively tie him down there long term. It seems likely he would have used his leverage to include a release clause in this new deal, but nothing has been confirmed yet.

Another top option off the list with Chelsea needs still obvious

23 year old Branthwaite was always likely to be vastly expensive, and we weren’t convinced a Chelsea move was ever close. But this does remove yet another option from the list. Left back remains a position we need cover in, and there are plenty who would say a dominant central defender is still essential if we want to really compete at the top next year.

There is still plenty of time left – but one by one, good options like this one will go off the market. Once Jamie Gittens is signed up, we expect this to be the next focus for the sporting directors.