Everton target Michael Keane to leave Burnley this summer

Everton target Michael Keane is to leave Burnley at the end of the season, according to Sky Sports.

Keane has just one year left on his contract at Turf Moor and Sky claim the club are ready to cash in on him now rather than risk losing him for nothing next year.

The 24-year-old began his career at Manchester United but made just one senior appearance before joining Burnley, initially on loan, in 2014.

The move was turned into a permanent £2m deal in January 2015 and Keane has flourished ever since.

The defender has been the standout performer in Burnley’s backline this season, earning himself a nomination for PFA Young Player of the Year and a call-up to the England squad.

Everton boss Ronald Koeman declared his interest in signing Keane in January but no official bid was lodged with Burnley.

We understand Everton are interested in signing the defender, though Sky Sports report that Liverpool, Tottenham and former club Man Utd are also interested.

It is believed Keane would cost in the region of £20m, which in today’s market isn’t too bad a deal.

Koeman has prioritised strengthening his backline this summer with Ashley Williams and Phil Jagielka approaching their mid-30s and Ramiro Funes Mori infuriatingly inconsistent.

A deal for Keane would be something of a coup given competition for his signature and the shortage of home-grown, ball-playing centre backs.