This fluff comes out only after dark

The path from Everton to Liverpool is not one well travelled. Nick Barmby was the last. If the other route is more travelled – think Kevin Sheedy, Peter Beardsley, Abel Xavier – it’s still not the done thing. So, Jarrad Branthwaite to Anfield, a deal that’s been bubbling under. Will it happen? The offer is £63m plus £7m in add-ons to prise the centre-back across Stanley Park. If Everton fans are used to seeing their stars sold too early – Wayne Rooney, Franny Jeffers, John Stones spring easily to mind – then perhaps a new ownership under John Textor may prevent a deal.

Branthwaite’s links with Manchester United were closed out by their purchase of Matthijs de Ligt. United are closing in on a deal to sign Manuel Ugarte on a season-long loan deal from PSG, with obligation to buy. Jadon Sancho? Loaned to Barcelona.

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