Everton will likely have to sign a replacement for Michael Keane this summer transfer window.
Michael Keane is out of contract at the end of the season, and there’s been no sign of a renewal.
Keane was initially set to leave Everton last summer, but David Moyes decided to offer him a one-year deal.
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Everton's Tyrique George on the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The 33-year-old has enjoyed a productive season, but the Toffees will need to sign an upgrade if they’re to become a European-level outfit again.
With that said, here is why Moyes may be targeting a move to sign John Stones.
Why John Stones is the perfect Michael Keane replacement for Everton
It has been reported that Everton are eyeing a move to sign John Stones this summer transfer window.
There are a number of reasons why this potential signing makes perfect sense, one being that he is set to become a free agent.
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With Keane due to leave on a free, it would be sensible from a financial perspective to recruit a replacement at a low cost.
Would a return for John Stones on a free make any sense for Everton? 🧐
His experience could prove priceless! 🏆
John Stones lifts the Premier League trophy for Manchester City.
Credit: Getty Images/Justin Setterfield
Of course, Stones would join on big wages, but there would be no transfer fee attached, allowing Moyes to allocate his budget elsewhere.
Another positive outcome from the transfer would be Stones’ vast experience in Europe.
Moyes is aiming for Europe this season, so if they do qualify, the Scotsman will be keen to add more European experience to his squad.
John Stones would bring value to the Everton dressing room
Not only would Stones be an upgrade on the current options from a footballing perspective, but he would also be a brilliant addition to the dressing room.
It has been widely reported that Stones is one of Jordan Pickford’s best friends, and he also has a great connection with the likes of Jack Grealish and James Tarkowski, having played together for England.
The Man City centre-back also knows club captain Seamus Coleman from his first spell at the club, so clearly he would seamlessly fit into the squad.
Moyes was the manager who recruited Stones to Everton back in January 2013, so the Scotsman will know all about his character.
The Toffees are facing competition from several clubs for Stones, including the likes of Bayern Munich and AC Milan.
So, it won’t be an easy deal to complete, but certainly one worth attempting.
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