• Newcastle United preparing to rival Man City and Man United for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite
• Branthwaite has been the shining light of Everton's campaign this season
• Highprofile clubs planning formal approaches for Branthwaite

Newcastle United are allegedly preparing to join the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United in the race to sign Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite. During a season where the Toffees are having to focus their attention on offthefield matters as much as action on the pitch, Branthwaite has been the shining light of their campaign. Having impressed during a loan stint with PSV Eindhoven, the 21yearold has returned to Goodison Park to make 25 starts in the Premier League, scoring two goals. Points deductions have played their part in moving Everton to 16th place in table standings; however, they possess one of top flight's best defenses alongside Manchester United.

Branthwaite's performances have led him receiving his first England callup and attracting increasing admirers from other clubs. Despite signing a new contract recently, Everton may need to sell one of their prized assets due to compliance with Premier League Profit and Sustainability regulations after already breaching them twice before.

While manager Sean Dyche expressed desire to retain Branthwaite longterm at Everton, highprofile clubs like Man Utd are reportedly readying themselves for making formal offers. According FootballTransfers report stating that Newcastle is also considering putting forward its own proposal for acquiring player services.

Branthwaites next destination?

If Newcastle wants to sign Branthwaite, they may need to sell a key player like Bruno Guimaraes who has been linked with an expensive exit in the past. Man City already has a wellstocked central defense and no apparent plans for departures, potentially giving Man Utd a clear path if they decide to pursue the deal. The Red Devils are looking to lower the average age of their centraldefensive options while securing a regular starting spot for Branthwaite.

It remains uncertain whether Newcastle's pursuit is realistic considering their previous struggles with Premier League financial rules. However, manager Eddie Howe needs at least one new centerback due to Sven Botman's potential longterm absence caused by an ACL injury.

If interested clubs make moves at seasonend, Everton will reportedly demand at least PS65m for Branthwaite. Despite other possible destinations, there are multiple reasons suggesting that Old Trafford could be his next home if Everton decides on selling him; although players would have to leave Manchester United first (with Raphael Varane as a potential departure).