Chelsea Urged to Sign Jarrad Branthwaite Over Jadon Sancho
Chelsea’s decision to sign Jadon Sancho on loan during the transfer window has sparked debate among former players, with some suggesting the club should have bolstered its defensive ranks instead.
Despite Sancho’s promising start at Stamford Bridge, ex-Chelsea winger Pat Nevin believes the Blues missed an opportunity by not pursuing Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.
Sancho, 24, arrived from Manchester United on a season-long loan, with an obligation for Chelsea to make the move permanent next summer.
The England international, eager to revive his career, has already shown flashes of brilliance in his early appearances.
However, Nevin argues that Chelsea’s focus should have been on reinforcing their defense, particularly with Branthwaite—a player Manchester United were also targeting.
“If I were Chelsea, I would have gone for Jarrad Branthwaite over Sancho or Pedro Neto,” Nevin said.
He believes Branthwaite, 22, could offer the defensive stability the club needs for years to come.
“Do without the creativity for now and solidify the backline. Branthwaite has the potential to be one of the top centre-backs in Europe.”
Nevin’s high praise for the Everton defender, who has yet to feature this season, extends to believing Branthwaite could even fit into teams like Barcelona.
“He’s fabulous on the ball and growing in confidence. He’s ready for the top level,” Nevin added.
As Chelsea continue to rebuild under manager Enzo Maresca, the debate remains whether they should have prioritized defensive reinforcements over attacking flair.
For now, all eyes are on Sancho to see if he can reignite his career in West London.
