Everton have ‘started contacts’ with both Parma and Mandela Keita over a possible move this summer.
Sky Sport Italy report that Everton have opened talks about signing the 24-year-old midfielder today.
Everton interest growing
A report in England last week stated that Mandela Keita was one of several midfielders Everton are currently looking at in the market. David Moyes is seemingly keen to strengthen that area of his team this summer.
Sky Italy now follow that up with their own information. According to them, Everton’s interest is more advanced than has been suggested. They report that not only have Everton started contact with Parma about the midfielder, but they are also in contact with Keita and his agents as well.
That would suggest he is firmly in their eyeline this summer. In fact, it is likely they are sounding out both parties about a potential deal.
Keita has enjoyed a steady upward trajectory since joining Parma from Royal Antwerp in 2024. He cost €12m at the time but is now valued at €20m. Any deal would likely cost more than that, though.
Everton midfield rebuild
Mandela Keita
Parma have the Belgian international, who is not a part of the World Cup squad this summer, tied to a deal until 2029. So, there is no immediate need for the to sell this summer. What Everton are willing to pay, remains to be seen.
They seem determined to change up their midfield options this summer. A deal for Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney is believed to be progressing and could be done this week.
On the other side, Idrissa Gana Gueye is yet to sign an extension to his current contract and Tim Iroegbunam has been linked with a £20m move to Ipswich Town. That would mean two out and just one on in compared to last season.
A big profit on Iroegbunam would provide funds for Keita, though. That is perhaps why Everton are already in contact with Parma and the Belgian’s agents.
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