Latest developments
- Man City are eyeing up a move for Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite.
- The defender has been linked with a move to several clubs, including Man Utd.
- City are looking for key signings to stop their poor run.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Source linked to City
Manchester City want to go toe-to-toe with rivals Manchester United and a host of other potential suitors, including Real Madrid, for the signing of Jarrad Branthwaite.
That is according to TBR Football and their transfer expert Graeme Bailey, who say City are keen on a deal in January, as they look to save their season.
Value (2/5): Everton want a big fee
The 22-year-old has been a standout performer for the Toffees this season, after a bid of £50 million in the summer from United was rejected. Valued at £34.75 million by Transfermarkt, Everton want more than double that – at least £75 million for the player under contract until June 2027.
Suitability (4.5/5): Has all the right attributes
Good in the air and confident on the ball, the England one-cap wonder has all the hallmarks of a centre-back capable of playing at the highest level.
Actually making that step up will be a challenge, but he will be comfortable in Pep Guardiola's back four and has vast Premier League experience with a club who know all about pressure situations.
Upgrade? (2.5/5): CB a concern short-term
City need a refresh, with injuries and aging players an issue at full-back, in various midfield roles and once again at centre-back, where Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji on the sidelines.
They still have John Stones, Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias, three players who are at least at Branthwaite's level if not better and though it will be good to have Branthwaite at the Etihad as cover this season, does he get a look in when City are at full strength again?
Logic (2/5): Better options for Jarrad
Branthwaite might be more inclined to wait for another offer to come in from United, where he will surely be more highly regarded and a key man going forward, rather than a short-term stop gap.
City, meanwhile, could spend £75 million better elsewhere.
Whisper+ verdict: 14/25
This move doesn't seem to be in the best interest of City or Branthwaite, but the Cityzens interest looks to be genuine. Desperate times call for desperate £75 million measures.
