Everton star in ‘advanced talks’ with relegation rivals as brutal Sean Dyche cull continues

Everton centre-back Mason Holgate is reportedly in ‘advanced talks’ with Sheffield United who look set to sign him on a season-long loan. 

Sean Dyche is expected to offload several players as he looks to generate the funds for his own transfer business this summer.

While Everton won’t recoup a transfer fee for Holgate, getting his wages off the books is a step in the right direction.

The Toffees have already parted ways with Yerry Mina, Tom Davies and Asmir Begovic upon the expiry of their contracts.

Now, several of their players are being linked with exits. Amadou Onana and Jordan Pickford are both on Man Utd’s radar, for example.

But, the player closest to a permanent departure is Demarai Gray, who could sign for Saudi club Al Hilal as soon as next week.

However, Holgate could soon walk out the exit door, too. This is according to talkSPORT, who claim Holgate has been ‘told to leave’ by the everton hierarchy.

On Twitter, they wrote: “Sheffield United are in advanced talks with Everton over signing Mason Holgate on loan.

“Holgate has been told he can leave as Everton attempt to trim their wage bill and make space for new arrivals.”

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Holgate departure gives Branthwaite huge chance

With Holgate seemingly on the way out, the attention now turns to Dyche over who he brings in to replace him.

As mentioned, Everton have also lost Mina recently. So, they currently have two fewer centre-backs at their disposal than last season.

Although, Dyche may have part of the solution already in his squad. Indeed, Jarrad Branthwaite spent the 2022/23 season on loan with PSV Eindhoven.

There, he made 27 league appearances, scoring two goals. The England under-21 international also played a key role in helping the Dutch giants win the KNVB Cup.

Branthwaite’s performances caught the attention of several top clubs. For example, Liverpool, Man Utd, Roma and PSV are all interested in signing the 20-year-old this summer. 

But, Dyche’s decision to loan out Holgate all-but confirms that Branthwaite will have a big role to play for Everton.

In terms of signing players, there is no doubt that the Toffees’ priority is a new striker. Several names have been doing the rounds, including free agent Moussa Dembele and Leeds United forward Rodrigo.

It’s going to be a huge few weeks for Dyche as we edge closer to the start of the season. So, it will be interesting to see who Everton bring in.

READ MORE: Top source reveals Everton eyeing new attacking upgrade from Leeds as Dyche deliberates double deal