The centre back impressed David Moyes and a new deal would save the club from spending time and a transfer fee on a replacement
Michael Keane celebrates scoring Everton's second goal during the Premier League win at Fulham. Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Michael Keane celebrates scoring Everton's second goal during the Premier League win at Fulham. Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
Everton are in talks with Michael Keane over a potential new deal. The centre-back’s current contract is set to expire but, as first reported by The Times, discussions over a possible extension are understood to be taking place.
Keane finished last season in the first team and impressed in the wins at Fulham and Newcastle United in May.
David Moyes praised the 32-year-old for his contribution in the final weeks of the season and is the latest manager to have been impressed by his professionalism behind-the-scenes.
Despite that, Keane looked likely to depart the club this summer after signing, initially on a five year deal, from Burnley in 2017 in a move that had the potential to reach £30m.
When the club released details of its retained list earlier this summer, it simply said that it remained in communication with the defender’s representatives. The ECHO understands those talks are continuing.
Should a deal be reached, Keane would start the campaign as a squad player behind Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski and competing with Jake O’Brien. But Tarkowski, 32, ended the season with a serious hamstring injury that led to fears it could hamper his pre-season.
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Meanwhile, O’Brien’s success at right back under Moyes last season could see him utilised out wide should the Blues struggle to strengthen in that area.
Should Keane leave the club then a new centre back would be added to the long list of players Everton need to sign during a summer of transition.
Preventing that would save time and resources from being allocated to recruiting a replacement while allowing Moyes to retain a known and trusted player in his dressing room.