Carlisle have slapped their price tag on in-demand centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, according to reports.
Everton had looked to lead the race to sign the 17-year old earlier this week, before the League Two side knocked back Everton’s initial offer of £500,000.
The Cumbrians rejected Everton’s bid as they believed that they could look to demand more money for Branthwaite, and they’ve now done that by declaring what it would take to sign the young defender.
Mail Online claim that Carlisle would demand £800,000 for Branthwaite, with the list of suitors for the defender growing.
As well as Everton, their city rivals Liverpool are said to be keen, as well as Chelsea, Manchester City, Leicester, Watford and RB Leipzig.
The Toffees are now said to be weighing up whether they want to submit an increased offer for the defender.
Read Everton Verdict
Given how well regarded Branthwaite appears to be, Everton would be wise to pay the amount that Carlisle are asking for.
£800,000 should be a drop in the ocean for Farhad Moshiri, and it won’t impact other transfer plans, so it would be worth investing if the player is someone that Everton can see having a future in the top flight.
With other clubs also interested though, Everton will need to be quick if they do decide to make a move.
