Arsenal have joined the big clubs keeping a close eye on Jarrad Branthwaite, according to latest reports.

Everton's former Carlisle United defender, from Wigton, has attracted many plaudits this season.

And the 21-year-old's form sees him continually linked with some top clubs in England and overseas.

Everton, who are facing a latest charge of breaching the Premier League's financial rules, are now the subject of speculation over whether they may have to cash in on their prized assets.

Left-sided central defender Branthwaite certainly fits that description with the England Under-21 captain catching many an eye.

According to TalkSport, Arsenal and Newcastle United are admirers of the Cumbrian, who is already said to be in the sights of Real Madrid and Manchester United.

"The 6ft 5ins centre-back is high on Man United’s new minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s summer shopping list," TalkSport claim.

"Scouts have watched him many times and were reportedly in attendance to see Everton play Aston Villa, which finished 0-0.

"Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti, who managed Branthwaite during his time in charge at Goodison Park, is also a big admirer along with Arsenal and Newcastle."

The possibility of a big-money move would be of considerable interest to Carlisle, who stand to benefit through a sell-on clause.

It was reported recently that Everton were setting a £100m asking price for Branthwaite, who has been tipped for a full England call-up soon.

Bookmakers have opened a market on the defender's next club, with Man Utd 6/4 favourites to land Branthwaite.

Chelsea are 2/1 with Everton's Merseyside rivals Liverpool 3/1.

Real Madrid are next at 7/2 with Newcastle United 5/1, Manchester City 6/1, Tottenhamn Hotspur 10/1 and Arsenal 12/1.

Branthwaite's most recent outing saw him help Everton defeat Crystal Palace 1-0 in their FA Cup third round replay, a game which saw his fellow Cumbrian Dean Henderson a substitute for the visitors.