West Ham United boss David Moyes is a ‘big admirer’ of Everton star Michael Keane as the Irons search for new defenders. The Hammers are also now the favourites for his transfer.
That is according to Pete O’Rourke, who reports Moyes rates Keane highly despite his lack of minutes at Goodison Park. While Paul Brown recently suggested the Irons lead the race for the centre-half’s services after he accepted that a switch would be in his best interests.
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Keane has only featured for 22 minutes in the Premier League so far this term after falling down Frank Lampard’s pecking order. The Blues boss improved his options in the summer with Conor Coady and James Tarkowski. He also has Ben Godfrey and Yerry Mina available.
West Ham lead the transfer race for Michael Keane amid his plight at Everton
Lampard’s business in the off-season has seen Keane become Everton’s fifth-choice option at centre-half now. He has even failed to make their last two Premier League squads and is yet to start a fixture this season. The 29-year-old’s only outing came on August 27, as well.
Minutes in the Carabao Cup were more forthcoming after starting each of the Toffees’ two ties in the competition. But after beating Fleetwood Town 1-0 on August 23, Keane would not stop Lampard’s squad from then losing 4-1 away to AFC Bournemouth on November 8.
Nonetheless, Moyes believes he can get Keane back to his best if West Ham can secure his transfer from Everton. The Athletic has also cited the Irons’ interest in the 12-cap England international. But it notes they may explore a loan deal if Craig Dawson were to leave first.
Multiple Premier League rivals are also paying attention to Michael Keane
Keane has not featured for the Three Lions since November 2020 after his performances at Goodison Park regressed. The Sun even reported this November that Everton were keen for Nottingham Forest to step up their interest so that they could sell the defender for £15m.
Steve Cooper is keen on taking the defender to the City Ground and had led the race for a deal. The Sunday Mirror (04/12, p82) reported that Nottingham Forest were the favourites to sign Keane on loan. But the Reds also faced competition from Fulham and Leicester City.
Having the chance to play Europa Conference League football at the London Stadium could help Moyes’ cause, though. West Ham secured a spot in the Round of 16 after they topped Group B. But they currently sit just 17th in the Premier League after a dire campaign so far.
Keane could now help Moyes guide West Ham back up the table if Everton agree to sell to a potential relegation rival. The Toffees – who signed Keane from Burnley for £25m, rising up to £31m, back in 2017 – are only one point better off than the Hammers to sit in 16th place.
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