Everton are interested in signing Martin Braithwaite, who recently left Espanyol after triggering his release clause. However, according to Caught Offside, Braithwaite is expected to seek reimbursement for the €600,000 (£504,000) release clause he personally triggered if he signs with Everton. This means that the Toffees would need to pay Braithwaite the six-figure fee as part of the deal.
Braithwaite’s release clause is a relatively affordable price for a player who scored 22 goals last season and helped Espanyol secure promotion back to La Liga. However, it’s worth noting that Braithwaite may be able to afford the fee himself thanks to his off-pitch endeavors. Nevertheless, it’s likely that he will expect reimbursement from his next club.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that players in Spain often trigger their own release clause personally, usually after the club that wants to sign them provides the money up front. In this case, Braithwaite has already triggered his release clause, and Everton would need to negotiate a deal with him directly.
Everton’s interest in Braithwaite is likely due to the fact that Dominic Calvert-Lewin is expected to leave the club this summer. With Calvert-Lewin’s contract status and Everton’s desire for £40million to sell, the Toffees may see Braithwaite as a short-term option to bridge the gap. At 33 years old, Braithwaite may be past his best, but he has shown enough to have a trio of Premier League sides interested.
In addition to Everton, Leicester City and Southampton are also reportedly interested in signing Braithwaite. However, the Toffees may have an advantage in negotiations due to their willingness to pay the six-figure fee. If Braithwaite does sign with Everton, he would likely be a solid addition to the squad, providing experience and goal-scoring ability.