Everton have had their first bid rejected for Carlisle centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite, according to reports in England. The Toffees are said to have had a £500,000 offer knocked back.

Rangers, along with the likes of Celtic, Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea are all believed to be monitoring the promising young defender, but it is Carlo Ancelotti’s side who have made themselves the frontrunners.

Branthwaite is a very promising young centre-back, and Carlisle are reportedly holding out for a larger fee for the 17-year-old.

Considering Rangers already have four first-team centre-backs in Connor Goldson, Nikola Katic, Filip Helander and George Edmundson, a move for Branthwaite was probably unlikely anyway.

However, it is a good sign that Director of Football Ross Wilson is able to identify young talent, and the Light Blues will certainly be looking to strengthen their youth ranks over the next few years with some astute signings both in Scotland and in England.