Everton must retain the services of £20m man wanted by Europa League outfit

The Everton defence is set to undergo changes this summer with centre back Yerry Mina leaving as a free agent. EFC have not taken the option to sign Conor Coady permanently for £4.5 million. With Jarrad Branthwaite slated to return upon his successful loan spell at PSV, he could have an important role to play.

EFC had six central defence options – James Tarkowski, Michael Keane, Ben Godfrey, Mason Holgate, Mina and Coady. Tarkowski was the undisputed starter as he became the only outfield player to play every single minute of the Premier League, starting all 38 games and not coming off as a substitute even once. The centre back partnership kept on changing but Tarkowski remained constant.

Manager Sean Dyche used Keane alongside Tarkowski and even though Keane did show glimpse of his ability, his inconsistency often cost the Toffees. In the final four games, Mina was spectacular and showed what he can do when fit and trusted upon. The Colombian will leave EFC at the end of this month when his contract runs down.

AS Roma keen to sign Everton centre back Jarrad Branthwaite

The futures of Godfrey and Holgate are also uncertain as EFC look to trim a bloated squad. If more defensive exits are made, EFC will have to seek upgrades and sign a new centre back. Everton will also have to make a call on the future of Branthwaite. Owing to the heavy competition and no chance for the young Englishman to creep into the starting lineup, EFC decided to loan him out to PSV last summer.

Branthwaite played 37 games for the Dutch club and was impressive in the PSV backline. So much so, that the Eredivisie club were eager to sign him permanently. PSV made an offer for Branthwaite in the winter transfer window which was rejected by the Toffees. Branthwaite has been open to staying at PSV but the chances of the Dutch club making a significantly high bid are low.

According to Tutto Mercato Web, AS Roma are also keen to sign the 20 year old this summer. The report claims that Roma will have to splash around £20 million to sign Branthwaite this summer. Perhaps, Dyche is yet to make a decision over the centre back.

Having him back in pre-season will give the former Burnley manager the necessary time and tools to evaluate him, assess him closely and then make a decision over the future of the 20 year old.

Should the Merseysiders sell Jarrad Branthwaite?