David Moyes decides as Sheffield United make approach to sign Everton ace
Everton have been approached by Sheffield United over the potential signing of Michael Keane, according to the Sheffield Star.
The report from Danny Hall (19 January) suggests the Blades are looking to strengthen their backline with the arrival of Keane from Goodison Park, in a deal which could be a loan switch though the 32-year-old is out of contract this summer.
Should Keane depart for Bramall Lane during the current window, it is likely to bring to an end his stint on Merseyside, which began back in 2017 when he arrived from Burnley for £25million.
The centre-half featured in the FA Cup win over Peterborough United (9 January) but has not starred in the Premier League since the defeat at Southampton on 2 November, though David Moyes is understood to be reluctant to let senior players leave during a survival battle.
Sheffield United want Everton ace Michael Keane
From a Sheffield United perspective, Keane represents an ideal move for Chris Wilder. The Blades have lost Harry Souttar to a long-term injury at the back.
The 12-cap England defender could be a pragmatic solution for Wilder, with his availability increasing due to the dwindling nature of his contract.
However, the six months Keane has left remaining – presuming the out-of-favour star’s deal is not extended with the Toffees – could prove vital for Moyes in his side’s relegation scrap.
James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite have been restored for a considerable time now as the leading central defensive partnership at Goodison, but Keane may be called upon should Moyes suffer any further injury burden with the duo.
Everton currently sit a solitary point above the drop zone in the Premier League with their game in hand – albeit against table-topping rivals Liverpool – coming on 12 February.
In other Everton news, Tottenham will be another key player down at Goodison on Sunday.
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