The left-footed centre-back has become one of the most coveted players in Europe - tying him to a five-year deal is a coup for Everton

Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite has signed a new long-term deal that will keep him on Merseyside until 2030, the club said on Wednesday, after media reports that the Englishman had drawn interest from some of the Premier League's heavyweight sides.

Jarrad Branthwaite's decision to sign a new long-term deal will, however, rank alongside any business as the most significant of the summer. The 23-year-old central defender has been outstanding in the last two seasons and the prospect of Branthwaite leaving was a hot topic of discussion among Everton fans.