Why Everton Should Go All Out For Michael Keane
When Ashely Williams was signed last summer to replace the departing John Stones, it looked like an unglamorous yet shrewd signing. Ashley, a no nonsense defender did what he does best – the unglamorous defending. Add Bolasie and Schneirdelin who were bought last season to the list and you have three consistent players in the roster who were all bought last season.
However, the one thing that is seriously lacking in those transfers is a statement of intent. Of course its fool worthy to imagine Everton signing a Neymar or Bale and announcing their arrival among the big boys under the new owners. However, a couple of shrewd and exciting signings could go a long way in helping the club progress, while also keeping the fans assured. One such signing could be the £10.20m rated Michael Keane. Young, English and hyped by the English media, Keane ticks all three boxes of inflation.
One team where Keane would perfectly fit in is Everton. With desperate need to overhaul the ageing backline, with Jagielka and Williams on the wrong side of 30s, Keane would be a perfect addition. His grit and mettle, brilliantly demonstrated in a stubborn Burnley defence would be handy for Koeman, who has been crying out for quality signings.
Apart from the quality he brings to the table, the other thing on Keane’s side is his resale value. Reaping the benefits of splashing the money on a talented but unproven Lukaku, Everton are bracing for a huge profit on Lukaku. Keane could be a very similar story if he joins Everton. Sure, he is going to cost a ton in the current market, but again we are dealing with a market with heavy inflation.
The brilliant displays in the relegation battle, the subsequent call-up to the England squad and heavy links to the big clubs in England were all testaments to Keane’s rapid rise. Barring a Goetze-esque loss of form, Keane’s value will always be on the rise, as he is English. His addition will also add to the exciting young first team players of Everton including Funes Mori, Tom Davies, and Holgate.
He will also be a valuable addition to Koeman, who is transforming Everton from a Moyes’ workmanlike sturdy defending side to a free flowing football side. With the kind of goals Everton shipped in last season, it is quite evident that they need some defensive reinforcements. With the anticipated cash splurge from Lukaku’s sale, Keane’s inflated pricetag should hardly be a challenge.