Reports: Real Madrid eyeing Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite

Fresh reports say the La Liga giants are keeping a close eye on the Everton defender, from Wigton.

Branthwaite's performances in the Toffees' defence this season have attracted plenty of plaudits, and seen Branthwaite linked with a number of admirers.

Mail Online now claim Real boss Carlo Ancelotti remains an admirer, the Italian having signed Branthwaite for Everton from Carlisle United back in January 2020.

The report says Real have received some "glowing reports from scouts" on Branthwaite, who has captained England's Under-21s this season and also been tipped for a senior international call-up.

The 21-year-old, who signed a new long-term deal at Goodison Park earlier this season, is also said to be in the sights of Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti (Image: PA)

The Mail article also quotes Branthwaite's agent, the former Carlisle United striker and captain David Reeves, as saying: "Everton were the ones who took a chance on Jarrad in signing him from Carlisle and he is happy getting a run in the team and playing well. 

"You can't help but notice the way he is performing but he's a loyal, level-headed lad and he's enjoying this moment. He just wants to carry on growing as a player, getting better."

i recently reported that Everton would demand £100m for Branthwaite.

A big-money move of that nature could prove hugely beneficial to Carlisle, who stand to benefit from a sell-on clause in their former academy star's contract.

Branthwaite has made 21 appearances so far this season for Everton, earning his chance in the side after last season's successful loan spell at PSV Eindhoven.

The Wigton star's most recent outing saw him up against fellow Cumbrian Dean Henderson, the pair on opposite sides as Everton drew 0-0 with Crystal Palace in last Thursday's FA Cup third round tie.