Everton sit 11th in the Premier League standings, just one point behind the European spots. One of their aims for next season is to play on the continent, but Jarrad Branthwaite, arguably their finest player, is still connected with a move overseas.

According to Football Insider, Liverpool is the latest club to enter the race to capture the Englishman, joining Manchester United, who have long been interested in the central defense.

According to the report, Branthwaite is valued at £80 million, therefore securing his acquisition will need major spending from any Premier League behemoth, while Champions League qualification.

Liverpool are expected to win the Branthwaite race, but they will need another signing

Liverpool must make more than one signing next year to improve their defensive unit. With Virgil van Dijk in his late 30s, there is limited long-term depth in central defense beyond Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni.

Jarrad Branthwaite looks to be a fantastic signing for the Reds. The 24-year-old has established himself as a seasoned Premier League defender, and his previous experience in the English top flight will help him adjust in quickly at Anfield.

Branthwaite has a powerful physical presence and makes well-timed challenges to reclaim possession; yet, while he is a full package defensively, his ball-playing abilities are insufficient to replace Van Dijk.

Regardless of whether they sign Branthwaite, Liverpool will need to bring in another center back or two, which calls into question the logic for an £80 million investment in his services.

In any case, the Reds will believe they have outbid Manchester United for his services.

United’s dismal start to the season means Champions League qualification is already a tall order, and while a move to Liverpool would see Branthwaite join Everton’s direct opponents, he will prioritize European Cup participation in his next destination.