Everton make fifth summer signing in potential £30m deal

 

Everton have announced they have signed Michael Keane from Burnley in a fee that could eventually rise to a club-record £30m fee if performance-related add-ons are met.

 

Keane was widely expected to re-join Manchester United this summer but opted against a return to Old Trafford over fears of playing time following the £30m arrival of Benfica defender Victor Lindelof.

 

The 24-year-old centre-back was one of the most impressive defenders in the Premier League last season and Keane has now put pen to paper on a five-year deal with the Merseyside club.

 

“I am absolutely delighted to be at Everton, a fantastic football club with passionate fans and a great tradition and I can’t wait to come into training tomorrow to meet all the lads,” he told the club’s official website.

 

“First and foremost, the manager was a big factor in me coming to the club. He’s played in my position when he was a world-class player for a great Barcelona side and a great Dutch side and the style of football he likes to play will suit me, I believe.

 

“I watched a lot of Everton last season and I believe I really suit how the team likes to play. I feel like this is a great place to come and continue my development as a player.

 

“He’s convinced me that he can still improve me in certain areas of my game. I’m only 24, which, for a centre-half in the Premier League, is relatively young. I’ve still got a long way to go and I know this and hopefully under his guidance I’ll keep improving.

 

“You always want to play for a manager who believes in you. I wanted to come somewhere I was wanted by the staff, players and fans as well. I feel like Everton is the perfect match.”

 

 

Keane’s performances for Burnley last season even earned him international recognition under England manager Gareth Southgate and he appeared to make the transition with consummate ease.

 

Everton have now made five signings this summer following the arrivals of Jordan Pickford, Davy Klaassen, Henry Onyekuru and Sandro Ramirez and their summer expenditure looks set to eclipse £100m.

 

Only Ben Mee (46) blocked more shots than Keane (44) in Europe’s top five leagues last season.

 

For more stats on Michael Keane, click here to visit his WhoScored player page