Everton on top in race for Michael Keane?

While perhaps not groundbreaking news, it appears that Everton Football Club may be in the driver’s seat for the services of Burnley and England defender Michael Keane.

Manchester United seem to prefer Victor Lindelof, and according to the Echo, the Blues have reportedly withdrawn their name from the bidding for Las Palmas man Mauricio Lemos:

Everton are continuing their pursuit of Burnley defender Michael Keane.

And it means the Blues have put plans to move for Mauricio Lemos on hold for the time being.

Everton have been weighing up a move for the Las Palmas centre-half but the ECHO understands that Ronald Koeman has made Keane his No. 1 defensive target.

Only 24, Keane was one of the best center backs in the Premier League this season on a surprising Burnley side. He would represent a significant addition to Everton’s core, and drastically reduce the average age along the back line.

via @FussballRadars

Of course, the Goodison Park links to Keane have been ongoing for quite some time, but only in the last 72 hours or so does it seem that the transfer might actually get over the finish line.

It’s rumored that Burnley are requesting £25 million in a deal for the England international, and at such a fair price, there’s not much sense in Everton spending the next two months haggling over the player.

Hull City’s Harry Maguire could still be a fallback option, but frankly, Keane is the better and more accomplished player.

Michael Keane wants and deserves a step up in his career. Burnley are sanctioning a sale, and Everton need a #1 center back. Write the check, Mr. Moshiri.