According to the Liverpool Echo, Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti has given the green light to Preston target Jarrad Branthwaite leaving on loan.
It’s stated that talks for Branthwaite to leave on loan this month have now accelerated after Ancelotti approved a move.
A deal should pick up pace this week, with four Championship clubs thought to be in the race for the £750,000 signing from Carlisle United.
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Blackburn Rovers and Sheffield Wednesday are both mentioned as being in the hunt for Branthwaite, whilst the Daily Mail reported last week that Preston are keen too.
Branthwaite, 18, is a huge physical presence at 6ft 5in tall, and he showed real potential in four Premier League outings last season.
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The teenager is left-footed, which would be hugely appealing to Preston if Ben Davies leaves the club during this month’s transfer window.
Branthwaite would be able to slot in and bring the balance that North End need, though a permanent signing would ideally come in there.
Adding Branthwaite would at least tide Preston over until the summer, though winning the race won’t be easy given the interest from Wednesday and local rivals Blackburn.