Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Everton defender, Jarrad Branthwaite, ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 21-year-old central defender is believed to have attracted the interest of both Manchester United and Tottenham. He is having a great season at the Goodison Park side after forming a strong partnership with James Tarkowski.
But according to a recent Daily Mail story as reported by CaughtOffside, the 21-year-old is also on the shortlist of Real Madrid.
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Madrid boss, Carlo Ancelotti, is believed to have known the Carlisle-born defender during his time as manager of the Toffees. As such, he may try to bring Branthwaite to the Spanish capital.
It remains to be seen if the youngster can handle the pressure of such a high-profile move. But the La Liga heavyweights will keep an eye on the defender’s mentality in anticipation of a possible blockbuster summer acquisition.
With three and a half years remaining on his contract, Branthwaite has played in 21 games, including 17 Premier League games, since returning to Everton from his season-long loan stint with PSV in the summer.
Madrid are currently experiencing a crisis at the heart of the defence. With both David Alaba and Eder Miltao out for a long period, Antonio Rudiger and Nacho Fernandez are the only senior centre-backs left in the team.
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Ancelotti has hinted that Aurelien Tchouameni will be deputized in the position pending the time the injured duo return to full fitness.
The 14-time UEFA Champions League winners are vying to win their 15th title and also aim to wrestle the La Liga title from the claws of last season’s winners, Barcelona.
However, Madrid face an unlikely title challenge from Girona, who have been an irresistible force gunning for the La Liga title.
By Habeeb Kuranga
