Exclusive: Everton Plan to Retain Branthwaite and Sell High-Profile Defender

In the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track Podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Michael Keane could be deemed surplus to requirements at Everton.

This potential departure is part of a broader trend, as sources indicate that several high-profile exits are expected at Everton during this transfer window.

Ben Godfrey has already left the club, and Keane might follow if Jarrad Branthwaite remains and the club brings in new defenders.

Branthwaite has been the focus of significant transfer speculation this summer. The young England international is considered a target for several top Premier League teams.

Everton has priced the 22-year-old at £70 million, a figure that deterred Manchester United after their initial £35 million bid was rejected.

Throughout his time at Everton, Keane has made 212 appearances in all competitions and scored 13 goals. However, he struggled for playing time under Sean Dyche last season, featuring only nine times in the Premier League.

The central defender, who joined Everton in 2017, is now in the final year of his contract, which expires next summer.

In addition to Keane, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is another player who might leave Goodison Park this summer. Calvert-Lewin has also been linked with a move away as Everton looks to reshape its squad ahead of the new season.

This period of transition could see several new faces at the club while some long-standing players make their exits.