PL rivals unwilling to lower £70m asking price for 22-year-old Tottenham Hotspur target
Tottenham Face Blow in Pursuit of Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite as Summer Plans Take Shape
Jarrad Branthwaite may end up staying at Goodison Park for the 2025/26 season, despite ongoing interest from Tottenham Hotspur. The highly-rated Everton centre-back has drawn plenty of attention following a strong campaign in the Premier League, but securing his signature appears increasingly unlikely for Spurs unless they make a significant financial move.
Tottenham Under Pressure to Make Transfer Moves
With pre-season preparations just around the corner, the urgency for Tottenham Hotspur to begin their transfer activity is mounting. The club is yet to make a real splash in the summer window, and the lack of movement so far has sparked frustration among the fanbase. Supporters are calling on the board to be more proactive in the market, especially after a turbulent end to last season and a managerial change at the helm.
The delay in transfer activity can, in part, be attributed to Tottenham’s recent managerial transition. The sacking of Ange Postecoglou at the end of May, despite a Europa League victory over Manchester United in Bilbao, temporarily stalled recruitment efforts. However, with the appointment of former Brentford boss Thomas Frank, the club now appears ready to launch a new era. The Danish manager has already spoken of his ambition to make Tottenham a team of “serial winners,” building upon their long-awaited return to silverware.
Defensive Reinforcements a Priority at N17
One of the key areas of concern heading into the new season is Tottenham’s backline. The North London side endured a shaky domestic campaign defensively, and with Cristian Romero’s future now uncertain amid links to Real Madrid, the need to sign a reliable centre-half is more urgent than ever.
Tottenham had identified Jarrad Branthwaite as a top defensive target. The 22-year-old England international has emerged as a standout performer for Everton, showcasing composure, strength, and tactical awareness beyond his years. Given his rapid rise, it was no surprise that Spurs were keen to bring him to the capital.
However, according to transfer insider Ben Jacobs, Tottenham’s hopes of landing Branthwaite have hit a major stumbling block. Speaking to Spurs Web, Jacobs revealed:
> “I don’t see Everton selling Branthwaite for under £70m, or even at all, and I am not aware of anything of note yet from Spurs on that front. I think most clubs know Everton’s asking price hasn’t dropped.”
This valuation presents a significant challenge for Spurs. Everton, still navigating their own financial uncertainties, are holding firm on their £70 million price tag. Unless Tottenham are willing to match that figure, a deal looks increasingly unlikely. Additionally, there have been no concrete steps taken by the club yet to enter negotiations or submit a formal bid for the player.
Levy Must Pivot if Branthwaite Deal Fails
With the Branthwaite deal looking difficult to pull off, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy may be forced to explore alternative targets in the market. Tottenham simply cannot afford to waste time, especially with pre-season fast approaching and Thomas Frank needing a settled squad to work with.
Another name that has emerged as a potential target is Lazio defender Mario Gila. The 24-year-old Spaniard has impressed in Serie A with his solid positioning, calmness under pressure, and ability to build from the back—traits that would fit well into Frank’s preferred style of play. If Tottenham are serious about reinforcing their defence, they may need to accelerate talks for Gila or other targets before the competition stiffens.
A Defining Summer at Hotspur Way
Ultimately, the coming weeks will be crucial for Tottenham. The club is poised to begin a new chapter under a new manager, with fresh ambitions and the hope of building on recent success. However, if they are to compete both domestically and in Europe next season, strategic and swift action in the transfer market will be vital.
Branthwaite may well remain at Everton, but Tottenham’s need for reinforcements remains unchanged. Whether it’s Gila or another capable defender, Thomas Frank must be given the tools he needs to succeed—and that starts with smart, timely recruitment this summer.