Keane ‘could land unlikely new Everton contract’ after what Moyes has said
Michael Keane is set to leave Everton as things stand when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The 32-year-old is available on a free transfer this summer, and has attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League as well as MLS side FC Dallas.
Keane endured a lack of game time for the Goodison Park club last term, while he has made just 15 appearances across all competitions this season.
The former England international has fallen behind both James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite in the Toffees’ pecking order.
Tarkowski injury hands Keane unexpected chance
Tarkowski’s season is over courtesy of an injury, and he will not play for the Toffees again until after the Merseyside club’s move to Bramley-Moore Dock.
The Blues captain’s injury could lead to Keane being named in David Moyes’ starting lineup for Saturday’s trip to Champions League hopefuls Chelsea.
| Michael Keane stats | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 11 |
| Starts | 9 |
| Minutes played | 850 |
Moyes has revealed that he would have a ‘problem’ with moving Jake O’Brien from full-back to central defence, which favours Keane.
The 32-year-old currently looks set to leave the Toffees on a free transfer, while his lack of game time would suggest this summer is the perfect time for him to move on to pastures new.
However, the seemingly unlikely possibility of a new contract could now be on the cards for Keane if he replaces Tarkowski in the Everton lineup and performs well.
There are still five Premier League fixtures remaining for the centre-back to prove to Moyes that he has what it takes to remain with the Merseyside outfit.
Chelsea test could give Keane a good audition to earn new contract
As it stands, Keane appears more likely than not to leave the Toffees at the end of the season, having last started for the Goodison Park club in their 2-0 win over League One side Peterborough in January.
However, Tarkowski’s setback could have handed him somewhat of a reprieve, while Saturday’s trip to Chelsea offers him a key opportunity to impress Moyes.
The West London club are intent on landing Champions League football ahead of next term, and boast quality attackers such as Cole Palmer among their ranks.
But if Keane is named in the starting lineup and can help Moyes’ men keep Chelsea quiet and earn a draw or a win at Stamford Bridge, he could prove that he is still worthy of a place in Everton’s squad.
The centre-back has made 229 appearances for the Toffees since joining from Burnley in 2017, and boasts bags of Premier League experience, which could help him perform at Stamford Bridge despite the tough season he is enduring.