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West Ham are weighing up a potential move for Everton defender Michael Keane, according to insider ExWHUEmployee.
Writing on The West Ham Way Patreon (quotes via their website), Ex said that the 33-year-old is under consideration as the Hammers seek to strengthen their options in the middle of defence:
“West Ham have confirmed that Michael Keane is a target and is someone who we see as the experienced leader at the back who can look [to] support our younger players.”
“He is not the only centre back target though, and there are others with similar credentials being looked at.”
Keane has lost his starting place at Everton
The 12-cap England international started 29 league games for the Toffees last campaign, but he was an unused substitute in the season opener against Crystal Palace last weekend.
Jarrad Branthwaite has overcome his injury problems, and the 24-year-old is set to be favoured over Keane as James Tarkowski’s centre-back partner by manager David Moyes.
With the player’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, it is likely that his sale will be sanctioned before the transfer window closes on Tuesday night.
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West Ham desperately need another centre-back
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side have already conceded 6 goals in their first 4 matches in all competitions this campaign.
The expected departure of Jean-Clair Todibo means that Max Kilman and Konstantinos Mavropanos are currently the only two senior centre-halves at the manager’s disposal.
In that context, the Irons need to get their act together to ensure that they are not left short in that position.
As Ex points out, Keane would not only be another body; he would offer the leadership qualities at the back that have been lacking for quite some time.