MANCHESTER CITY are keeping tabs on Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite ahead of the summer transfer window, according to reports.
Branthwaite, 21, has been heavily linked with a move away from Goodison Park in recent months.
Since breaking into the first team at the start of the campaign, the centre-back has made 31 appearances across all competitions.
And his impressive form has attracted interest from the likes of Manchester United, Tottenham and Real Madrid.
According to the Daily Mail, Man City are also considering a swoop.
City officials like the fact Branthwaite is young, homegrown, and showing tactical traits similar to John Stones.
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However, Everton want at least £60million for him this summer.
That could put the defender out of Man Utd’s price range.
Branthwaite earned his first senior England call-up earlier this month.
He was an unused substitute during the team’s 1-0 defeat to Brazil on Friday.
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However, the Everton star could be in line to make his debut against Belgium on Tuesday.
Speaking after his Three Lions call-up, Branthwaite told Everton TV: “It’s a dream come true.
“To represent your national team at any level is a massive achievement, but for it to be the senior squad, I’m over the moon.
“I found out in training. The gaffer pulled me and told me I’ve been selected, so I was buzzing when I heard the news.
“You can only affect what you do on the pitch and give yourself the best possible opportunity to be selected, and that’s by putting in good performances on the pitch.
“That’s what your only focus can be, really, and that’s been from when I came into the team to now – it’s just to keep delivering that high level and see where that takes me.
“I messaged my dad and he said he’s very proud of me. He said: ‘All of the family is proud’, so it’s a lovely feeling. I just can’t wait to join up with the team.
“They’re obviously really tough fixtures, but I’m really happy to just be in the squad, take every moment in and see where it takes me.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
