Everton set to trigger Michael Keane contract extension amid defensive concerns
Everton are set to trigger a one-year extension clause in defender Michael Keane's contract, according to TEAMtalk sources, keeping the 33-year-old at the club until the summer of 2027. The decision comes as the Toffees face a defensive shortage following a fresh hamstring injury to star centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite.
Branthwaite sustained the injury during Sunday's Merseyside derby defeat to Liverpool, with the club confirming via social media that a scan revealed no procedure was needed but that the 23-year-old is unlikely to feature again this season. This marks the second significant hamstring issue for Branthwaite this campaign, after he missed 25 matches earlier in the season following surgery.
In light of this setback, securing Keane's services for an additional year provides immediate stability. The former England international has been a consistent performer for David Moyes's side this term, deputising effectively during Branthwaite's initial absence and earning recognition as one of the team's standout defenders. Keane, who joined Everton from Burnley in 2017, is reportedly happy to remain at Goodison Park and believes he can continue to contribute significantly.
Despite this internal solution, Everton are expected to be active in the summer transfer market to bolster their central defensive options. Sources indicate the club holds a firm interest in two specific targets. The first is a potential sensational return for Manchester City's John Stones. The 31-year-old, who began his career at Everton, is out of contract at the Etihad this summer and is understood to be open to a move back to Merseyside, though concerns over his own injury record are noted.
The second player on Everton's radar is Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez. The 24-year-old, signed from Peterborough United last summer, has impressed in Scotland this season, contributing five league goals. Sources confirm to TEAMtalk that Everton are among the clubs to have shortlisted Fernandez, whose asking price is believed to be around £25 million. The club is not currently leading the race for his signature but remains firmly in the mix.
Everton's existing defensive corps includes vice-captain James Tarkowski, 33, who has been virtually ever-present, and Jake O'Brien, 24, who has often played at right-back but is a natural centre-half. The potential addition of a new defender, alongside Keane's extension, points to a strategy of building both experience and cover, particularly with Branthwaite's recent fitness troubles in mind. The club's planning underscores their intent to build on a season of progress as they remain in contention for European qualification.
