'Terrific' Everton gem set to leave on loan; Ancelotti dubbed him 'really skilful' - report

Jarrad Branthwaite is reportedly now set to leave Everton on a loan deal this summer.

The 19-year-old made somewhat of a breakthrough into the first team last season, with his eight appearances in all competitions coming after he had only played five times before for the senior side (Transfermarkt).

Dubbed a ‘really skilful’ defender by former Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti, and a ‘terrific footballer‘ by manager Steven Pressley while on loan at Carlisle United, the youngster possesses a rare quality on the ball for a centre-back, so he seems perfectly suited to the modern game.

As per The Daily Mail, Branthwaite is now ‘set to leave’ Goodison Park on loan this summer, as Everton want the 19-year-old to ‘push on’ in his development.

PSV Eindhoven, Schalke 04, Middlesbrough, Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town, Blackpool, Cardiff City and Sunderland are all thought to be interested in taking him on loan, in what could turn out to be an almighty tussle for his signature.

Loaning Branthwaite out to a big club in Europe or to the Championship for next term would be perfect for his development.

Even though he did get game-time for Everton last term, the 6 foot 5 colossus only featured in eight matches.

Also, with the imminent arrival of fellow centre-back James Tarkowski on a free transfer following his departure from Burnley, Branthwaite’s game-time is likely to be limited even more if he remains at Goodison Park.

Therefore, a loan move would ensure that he plays more regularly and furthers his development upon a return to Frank Lampard’s squad at the end of the season.

Source