Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite is reportedly prepared to consider his future with the Toffees after being overlooked for a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad.
Manchester United tabled at least a couple of bids to sign Branthwaite last summer, but Everton ultimately decided to rebuff those attempts in favour of keeping one of their prized assets at Goodison Park.
After struggling with injury towards the start of the season, the 22-year-old has gone on to make 19 consecutive starts for the Toffees, demonstrating his importance to the Merseyside club.
However, there appears to be some doubt as to whether he will still be with the club for the start of their new era at the Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium.
Branthwaite considering Everton future
According to Sky Sports News, the Everton defender is assessing his future after being left out of Tuchel's first England squad.
Instead of Branthwaite, the new England head coach opted to pick Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa, Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi, Chelsea's Levi Colwill and Liverpool's Jarell Quansah.
Tuchel also decided to select Dan Burn over the Everton defender, giving the Newcastle United defender his international debut for Friday's 2-0 win over Albania.
Branthwaite has had to settle for a place in Lee Carsley's England Under-21 squad, featuring as a substitute in Friday's 5-3 defeat to France.
The 22-year-old is now weighing up whether his chances of earning a senior call-up would increase if he were to join a club competing towards the top end of the Premier League.
Who is in the race for Branthwaite's signature?
Everton's local rivals Liverpool are believed to be among his potential suitors, although it is unclear whether Branthwaite would entertain the prospect of making the controversial move.
Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur are also in the race for the Everton centre-back, while Manchester United are expected to reignite their interest in the summer transfer window.
However, Tottenham and Manchester United's chances of landing Branthwaite could be dented if they fail to secure European football for next season.
Meanwhile, Spanish giants Real Madrid could potentially offer the England Under-21 international the chance to try a fresh challenge away from the English top flight.
Branthwaite is under contract with Everton until the summer of 2027, with an option to extend his deal by a further 12 months.
The two parties have been open to agreeing a new contract, but no formal discussions have taken place at this stage. body check tags ::
