Liverpool are keen to steal Jarrad Branthwaite from their struggling local rivals Everton as a successor to Virgil van Dijk. The Reds have maintained their patience during the summer, opting to sign players with immense quality under the best circumstances.

While a big section of Liverpool’s fanbase wanted more signings, there is a consensus that their transfer methods are efficient. Liverpool signed Juventus star Federico Chiesa for this season while also adding Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili to secure their goalkeeping department.

Mamardashvili will continue to play for the Spanish club on loan and join the Reds for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Liverpool have a strong depth in the squad and they only want to sign players who can succeed in their ageing stars.

Van Dijk has maintained his high level of performance despite his age, playing in the last season of his contract. Irrespective of the eventual outcome of the 33-year-old’s contractual situation, Liverpool needs a worthy successor to one of their best.

According to Fichajes, the Reds want Branthwaite from Everton to succeed Van Dijk at the club despite the tricky situation. Liverpool and Everton have not done a transfer deal since 2002 when right-back Abel Xavier joined the Red side.

Everton have justified their £80m price tag on Branthwaite by emphasizing his age, nationality, and importance. English players often command inflated price tags but Liverpool’s willingness to spend is another matter entirely.

Player analysis: Jarrad Branthwaite

However, the transfer price could drop significantly if Everton continues their losing streak and faces the immediate relegation threat. Standing at 1.95 metres, Branthwaite has an imposing presence in the Toffees backline while enjoying good mobility despite his size.

The 22-year-old is a left-footed centre-back but is equally comfortable with his right foot which gives him a significant advantage. Liverpool lacks a left-footed centre-back and they could prioritize a player with that profile to replace Van Dijk.

Just like the Liverpool captain, Branthwaite enjoys healthy dominance in aerial duels and excels in ground duels as well. The young Englishman has good ball control and possesses comfort with passing and dictating tempo despite Everton’s tactical style. The Toffees do not prioritize possessional play from the backline under their current manager Sean Dyche.

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Branthwaite fits the profile perfectly and his English nationality alongside familiarity with the city is a bonus. However, his current allegiance with Everton remains a problem for Liverpool to do any deal for the player currently in just £35,000 per week.