Liverpool might well be in a great position to make a bold push for Jarrad Branthwaite, which could upset the Merseyside equilibrium. This action follows PSV’s withdrawal from the running after determining that Branthwaite’s asking price was too high owing to budgetary restrictions.
Players switching teams between these longtime rivals isn’t exactly usual, but it’s also not completely impossible. Abel Xavier switching to the Reds in 2002 marked the final such transfer. This time, Jurgen Klopp appears eager to improve his defensive lineup, and Evertonian Branthwaite may be the solution.
An Eredivisie Talent to Watch
Liverpool’s interest in the player on loan at the Eredivisie was exposed by the Daily Mail earlier this year. Scouts from Roma and Manchester United were also spotted applauding the player’s outstanding performance. According to Sport Witness, Marcel Brands, PSV’s director of football, said that it would be “financially difficult to achieve” to sign Branthwaite permanently.
Liverpool might take advantage of this circumstance given their significant financial edge over PSV. The 20-year-old English defender from Everton may receive a surprise bid as a result.
Branthwaite’s Suitability for Liverpool
At first sight, a transfer for Branthwaite to Liverpool might not appear likely. However, the concept is not entirely absurd when taking into account the player’s statistics and suitability. The young center back is a left-footed player by nature and tall, standing at 6 feet 5 inches. These qualities make him a competitive replacement for Liverpool’s right-footed center-half Virgil van Dijk, who typically patrols the left side of the defense.
This season, Branthwaite has a stellar record. Across all competitions, he made 37 appearances and contributed four goals and two assists. Ruud van Nistelrooy, his previous coach, described him as a “great talent” as a result of his performance.
According to FBref, Branthwaite’s statistics rank him in the top quarter of center backs for progressive passes and interception rate per 90 minutes, as well as the top 15% of center backs for goals and assists. He has room for progress, but he is in a position to become one of the finest in his field.
A Potential Matip Successor?
Joel Matip might be replaced by Branthwaite, who Carlo Ancelotti referred to as “skillful.” Matip’s contract is set to end in a year at the age of 31. Despite making a huge impact on Liverpool’s illustrious past, Matip only earned 12 Premier League starts this year. His performance this year has been characterized as “awful” by CBS reporter Nico Cantor, raising concerns about his future at Anfield.
Branthwaite’s youthful vitality might inject much-needed vigor into Liverpool’s backline, acting as a cushion for Klopp’s squad and ultimately solidifying his own spot in the club over the following several seasons.
The possible acquisition should be watched for by Liverpool supporters. Branthwaite might prove to be a wise addition to Anfield’s defensive unit if the pieces come together, even though the club’s main focus will be on strengthening their midfield. According to Sport Witness, this is a development that deserves to be attentively watched.
