Everton target Michael Keane is reportedly edging closer to joining Manchester United.
Burnley’s Michael Keane
According to The Independent, Manchester United believe that Burnley defender Michael Keane is likely to join the club this summer, after holding initial talks over a deal.
Keane, 24, came up through the ranks with the Red Devils having joined the club at a young age, but he made just five first-team appearances for United before being sent out on loan to Burnley in 2014.
The centre back’s successful stint at Turf Moor led to a permanent move, and Keane has been a mainstay of a Burnley side which not only won promotion from the Championship last season, but have also achieved Premier League survival this term.
Keane has earned his first England cap off the back of his Burnley displays, and with his Burnley contract set to expire in 2018, Burnley look likely to cash in on Keane before he walks away for nothing.
England’s Michael Keane applauds fans
Now, The Independent report that United believe Keane will re-join the club this summer, having held encouraging initial talks with Burnley about a move, with ‘significant progress’ already made.
Keane could therefore become Eric Bailly’s long-term partner in the United defence, whilst putting the futures of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones in doubt – and leaving Everton frustrated.
As noted by the Liverpool Echo, Everton were hoping to land Keane, but United’s progress on a deal suggests that the Toffees will have to turn their attention to other centre back targets, as they look to find a partner for Ashley Williams.
Burnley’s Michael Keane celebrates scoring
Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson would be a sensible target, but Boro could charge a huge fee even if they suffer relegation. The Toffees could instead turn to Hull City defender Harry Maguire, who has turned in some impressive displays this season and looks to have real potential, without breaking bank.
Overseas targets such as Lazio’s Stefan de Vrij and Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly also make sense if Everton want to splash the cash, so whilst potentially missing out on Keane is a blow, they have plenty of other players to target instead.
Which defenders would you like to see Everton target?
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