Wrexham are looking to bolster defensive options ahead of their Championship campaign.
Phil Parkinson has held interest in a number of centre backs with Premier League experience as he looks for the perfect foil for young duo Max Cleworth and Lewis Brunt.
Wrexham have offered a contract to Craig Dawson, whilst the Red Dragons missed out on the signature of Harry Darling after he opted to sign for Norwich City.
Ben Davies is Wrexham’s dream transfer but recent reports have linked the club with a move for Michael Keane. Everton expert Mark Marston has caught up Wrexham Insiderand given an honest insight into Parkinson’s latest target.
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Everton player Michael Keane during a game against Peterborough United.
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Everton expert Mark Marson provides insight on Michael Keane traits
Wrexham will be patient in their pursuit of a central defender and Parkinson will want the right character, as well as ability on the pitch.
Keane possesses a wealth of experience in the top flight and has 12 England caps to his name. Marston has given fans an insight into the player who has made 230 appearances for the Toffees.
What are Michael Keane’s strengths as a player?
Michael Keane was widely regarded as one of England’s best ball playing centre-halves when he first emerged onto the scene. That composure and passing ability hasn’t left him, so he’d probably look a level above in the Championship in that regard.
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Keane is also a real threat from set-pieces and has actually scored 36 goals in his career, with 16 of those in the Premier League.
What are Michael Keane’s weaknesses as a player?
The 12-cap international has always been prone to an error and that’s largely down to poor concentration. That’s usually what separates the top defenders in the top-flight and unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to iron that out of his game.
Keane can also suffer from a lack of confidence and aged 32, he isn’t the quickest.
Wrexham play a 3-5-2 formation, where would you see Keane fitting in and why?
Keane has operated in a traditional back four under the last four managers at Everton, with Carlo Ancelotti the last to deploy a three at the back system.
So evidently he may take time to readjust, however, I think he has the tools to excel in the middle. You wouldn’t really want him getting dragged out and left one-on-one with a much quicker wide player.
Do you still see him having the quality to play in the Championship?
Absolutely. I have no doubts he’d find his feet in the second tier and really kick on. Whilst Keane’s best work is with the ball at his feet, he is very aggressive and can more than handle the physical side of the game.
He already has experience of the league, too, having made 86 appearances with Burnley, Leicester City, Blackburn Rovers and Derby. Keane’s Premier League quality should show.
Michael Keane’s Championship record Appearances Goals Assists
Keane 86 10 3
Michael Keane’s Championship record via Transfermarkt – correct as of 25/06/2025
Could you rate Keane as a signing out of 10 for Wrexham?
I’d probably give it an 8/10. This is a player who’s played over 250 games in the Premier League under some of the best coaches in Europe. That experience will be invaluable for Phil Parkinson’s side.
What are Michael Keane’s wages at Everton?
Jay Rodriguez is Wrexham’s highest earner currently and should the Red Dragons want to pursue a move for Keane, they would have to smash their wage barrier.
According to Capology, Keane is currently earning £80k a-week on Merseyside – an annual salary of £4,160,000.
Michael Keane challenges Mateus Fernandes during Everton v Southampton in the Carabao Cup Third Round clash.
Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images
Premier League quality means Premier League money and should Wrexham want to attract this calibre of player, they will have to compete financially.
Wrexham offered a contract to Tom Cairney for a reported £50k a-week, so have already proven they are willing to break the bank this summer.