Everton have reportedly identified Genoa centre-back Koni De Winter as a potential replacement for Manchester United-linked Jarrad Branthwaite.
Branthwaite was allegedly the subject of at least two bids from Man United last summer, with their second offer, thought to have been an initial £45m plus add-ons, rejected by the Toffees.
It is understood that the Red Devils are willing to submit an offer in excess of £50m for the 22-year-old, who is valued by Everton at around £70m.
The chances of Ruben Amorim's side signing Branthwaite will 'greatly increase' if they secure Champions League football for next season by winning the 2024-25 Europa League, but they may face competition from Real Madrid for his signature.
Branthwaite has established himself as a star player at Goodison Park since breaking into the senior team in 2023, making 78 appearances across all competitions including 20 Premier League starts this season.
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Everton identify De Winter as potential Branthwaite replacement
Although Everton and their new majority owners - The Friedkin Group - would ideally like to keep hold of Branthwaite, who has just over two years remaining on his contract, TEAMtalk journalist Rudy Galetti claims that the Toffees are preparing themselves for the defender's possible exit.
Everton are said to be gearing up for a transformative summer as The Friedkin Group are prepared to heavily invest in the first team, but how much they spend on new recruits may depend on player sales and the future of current first-team stars.
Amidst uncertainty over the future of Branthwaite, Everton have identified Genoa's 'colossus' centre-half De Winter as a potential heir and have joined the race for his signature.
It is claimed that that representatives of both Wolverhampton Wanderers and Inter Milan have already made 'several recent checks' on the two-capped Belgium international, while a number of Bundesliga clubs have also been credited with an interest.
Aware of growing interest in De Winter, Genoa will not stand in the player's way if they receive an offer of at least €25m (£21m), a fee that is unlikely to deter any interested suitors.
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Who is in-demand Genoa star De Winter?
Born in Antwerp, 22-year-old De Winter began his youth career in his native Belgium before moving to Juventus' academy in 2018.
The 6ft 2in centre-back made over 90 appearances for Juventus at academy level over a four-year period, but he was unable to establish himself in the senior side and played just twice - both at right-back in the 2021-22 Champions League - before joining Empoli on loan the following campaign.
De Winter then impressed during a season-long loan spell at Genoa in 2023-24 before joining the club permanently last summer for around €8m.
Under the tutelage of manager Patrick Vieira, De Winter has become an important first-team player for Genoa, chipping in with three goals in 17 Serie A outings for a side who sit 12th in the table.
Although De Winter has a contract until June 2028, it is understood that the defender is primed for a summer transfer, with Everton regarding him as a 'strong candidate' to reinforce their defence, even if Branthwaite were to stay at the club for next season.
Oliver Thomas
