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Everton Defender’s Future in the Balance
Everton’s defender Michael Keane is on the verge of a significant career shift, with reports suggesting he is poised to sign a pre-contract agreement with a new club next month. The 31-year-old has attracted interest from clubs in Serie A and Major League Soccer, as he prepares to leave Everton after an eight-year tenure.
January Talks on the Horizon
According to recent reports, Keane is set to enter discussions with various foreign clubs in January regarding a potential free transfer next summer. His departure seems increasingly likely, particularly as he has already been left out of the squad by manager Sean Dyche in favour of other players. Keane’s move away from the Toffees could mark the end of an era, as he looks towards new opportunities abroad.
Keane’s Everton Journey: A Mixed Bag
Keane joined Everton from Burnley for a hefty £25 million back in 2017, but his time at Goodison Park has been a rollercoaster ride. Despite once being a mainstay in the squad, his recent performances have seen him fall out of favour, making just 21 appearances in the Premier League over the last two seasons. This decline has left fans wondering about his future with the club.
Injury and Competition for Places
Keane’s recent struggles have been compounded by injury. He missed a heavy 4-0 defeat against Manchester United due to a knee knock, sidelining him for approximately ten days. His absence has coincided with the return of Jarrad Branthwaite, who has seized the opportunity to solidify his place in the starting eleven. Dyche has acknowledged that Keane didn’t deserve to lose his spot, but the competition for places in the squad is fierce.
Financial Considerations: A Pay Cut Ahead?
Currently, Keane is earning a substantial £80,000 per week, which raises questions about his future at the club. For Everton to consider extending his contract, it is believed that Keane would need to accept a significant pay cut. With emerging talents like Branthwaite, James Tarkowski, and Jake O’Brien filling the centre-back positions, the likelihood of Keane staying with the Blues appears slim.
Everton’s Performance Without Keane
Interestingly, Everton has fared well in recent matches without Keane, managing to secure two clean sheets in the three games since his demotion. Currently, the club sits 15th in the Premier League table, just two points above the relegation zone. If this season turns out to be Keane’s last with Everton, fans will be hoping he can contribute significantly to the team’s efforts to maintain their top-flight status.
What Lies Ahead for the England International?
As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Keane and his next move. With opportunities in both Italy and the United States beckoning, the defender may soon find himself at a crossroads in his career. Everton supporters will be keenly watching how he performs in the remaining matches of the season, hoping he can leave a lasting legacy before his departure.
Other Developments at Everton
In addition to Keane’s situation, there are rumblings about the potential termination of a loan deal involving another Everton star. The club is navigating a challenging period, and changes may be on the horizon as they aim to solidify their position in the Premier League.
As the dust settles on the current season, Keane’s next steps will be pivotal for both him and Everton. Will he embrace a new adventure, or can he find a way back into the fold at Goodison Park? Only time will tell.
