Liverpool’s hunt for a new centre-back has hit a couple of stumbling blocks so far.
Ibrahima Konate’s future is still uncertain, and with Jarell Quansah now sold to Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool find themselves a bit short in central defence.
In recent weeks, players like Castello Lukeba and Giovanni Leoni have been linked with moves to Anfield, but so far, nothing concrete has materialised.
That might be for a reason—Jarrad Branthwaite’s new release clause has just come to light.
According to the Daily Mail, Everton have inserted an exit clause into Branthwaite’s contract worth over £70 million. The catch? It can’t be triggered until next summer.
Liverpool have shown interest in Branthwaite before. Despite interest from clubs across Europe last season, Everton managed to hold on to him. But with this new clause, a move in 2026 suddenly looks more realistic.
A couple of seasons ago, Branthwaite was being talked about as one of the top young centre-backs in the league. Alan Shearer even called him “magnificent.” He built a strong partnership with James Tarkowski and stood out with his composure and presence.
While his 2024/25 season wasn’t quite as dominant, he remains a very solid option—and at just 23, he’s already packed with Premier League experience.
Right now, it’s hard to say exactly what Liverpool’s next move will be, but if Arne Slot doesn’t bring in a centre-back this summer, this Branthwaite clause might explain why. It could be part of a longer-term plan.