Sean Dyche discusses Jarrad Branthwaite’s future amid two rejected bids from Man Utd

Everton manager Sean Dyche is optimistic about keeping hold of Jarrad Branthwaite this summer, but he acknowledges that the club's financial situation is uncertain. He admits that they may have to consider selling the player if the right offer comes along.

Branthwaite emerged as a top target for Manchester United this summer after an impressive Premier League campaign which almost saw the centre-back make England’s final 26-man squad for Euro 2024.

United saw two bids rejected by Everton and have subsequently signed Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt but could still go back in for the 22-year-old before the end of the summer window.

And Dyche conceded that the club would still have to consider letting go of any of their prized assets should a sufficient offer be made in the coming weeks.

‘I’m confident that the club are going to do the best they can to make sure we’re competitive but equally the club’s got an outside picture which is quite obvious and that’s not something that I can control,’ Dyche replied when asked about interest in Everton’s best players.

The club have already cashed in on midfielder Amadou Onana, who joined Aston Villa for £50m, and may be forced to make more sales as progress over a new takeover continues to stall.

‘They do need to balance the finances better, we’ve done a lot of work with that since I’ve been here, and Kev [Thelwell] obviously is included in that, on the playing side to bring money in and lower the wage bill.

‘We’ve done a pretty fair job I would say of that but the bigger picture of the club is dependent on what money is needed at any given time.’

American businessman John Textor has now reportedly entered a period of exclusivity to negotiate a takeover, but the 58-year-old would first have to relinquish his 45 per cent share in fellow Premier League club Crystal Palace.

The news comes after failed bids to secure a takeover from two other parties, The Friedkin Group’s (TFG) and private investment firm 777 Partners.

Everton, who begin their season at home to Brighton, will be without Branthwaite who muissed pre-season with a groin problem.

Club captain Seamus Coleman, James Garner, Nathan Patterson and young striker Youssef Chermiti will also miss out.

‘They’re a little bit behind,’ Dyche added. ‘Seamus as well. Jimmy Garner was unfortunate; nothing serious but should be joining in pretty soon.

‘Patto is making good progress and has just started training with the group. They’re making good progress but aren’t there yet.’

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

Follow for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.