Everton manager Sean Dyche has denied that the arrival of Jake O’Brien is linked to Cumbrian Jarrad Branthwaite’s future.
The giant 6ft 6in Republic of Ireland international centre-back – who is an inch taller than the Wigton defender – has become the Blues’ fifth signing of the summer.
O’Brien has just completed a £16.43million transfer from Olympique Lyonnais.
The speculation started after Manchester United have seen two bids for Branthwaite rejected.
The first was for £35million plus add-ons and then £45million plus adds ons.
He came on as a sub in the final warm-up game against Iceland although he was subsequently not included in the squad for the summer tournament in Germany.
The Toffees have insisted that Branthwaite is in the same bracket as Harry Maguire, Wesley Fofana and Josko Gvardiol who moved clubs for between £75milliom and £80 million.
Speaking about recent speculation on Branthwaite following the signing of O’Brien Everton boss Sean Dyche told Sky Sports: “Putting two and two together at Everton Football Club? No way, you’re kidding me. I’m very surprised that people have put two and two together at Everton Football Club.
“What I would suggest is that’s it’s nothing to do with that (the O’Brien transfer in relation to Branthwaite). You know it’s just with the modelling and trying to model the club with the finances available, to try and bring players who can add the layers to the club.
“Obviously we’re stretched at the moment but the depth of the club if you like and a younger style of players who can develop and protect the club, both on the pitch with their performances and in the future with the finances. It’s a tough juggling act and tough to find the players who can do that but we think we’ve got a few here now.”
Dyche was then asked how confident he was that Branthwaite would remain with Everton for the whole season and replied: “We’ve made it clear to him there was nothing other than that. But as you said, two and two together and everyone starts speculating and what do you do?”
