Everton have retained the services of Michael Keane for another season at least, with the defender signing a 12-month extension to his contract.

The 32-year-old’s previous deal expired this summer and it was expected that he would seek a fresh challenge elsewhere, perhaps where he would be a guaranteed starter.

Keane reportedly had interest from other clubs, including his previous club, Burnley, who are back in the Premier League this season after spending last term in the Championship, and Leeds United but he will now play a ninth season for the Blues.

There is scope for him to remain at the club beyond next summer as well with a Club option included in his new deal for a further year.

“I love Everton and have been massively proud to play for this club since the day I joined so I’m delighted to extend my stay here,” the Stockport-born centre-half said after putting pen to paper on his new contract.

“The manager wants a competitive squad and I still feel I have a lot to give to Everton.

“We’ve been through a difficult few years but it’s an exciting time ahead for us as players and our brilliant fans.

“We’ve got a world-class new stadium to play in, and our form under the manager last season shows there’s a lot of reasons to be positive. I’m looking forward to being part of it.”

David Moyes was keen to keep Keane’s experience and goal threat in the squad as he plans for his first full season back in the Everton hot-seat.

“We are pleased Michael has agreed to stay with us,” the Scot said. “His performances at Fulham and Newcastle at the end of last season showed the value he can bring to our squad. We will need his experience and professionalism as we go forward."

Keane will once again be battling James Tarkowski, Jake O’Brien and fellow signatory of a new contract, Jarrad Branthwaite, for a starting berth when the Toffees kick off the 2025/26 season against Leeds next month.

Signed from the Clarets for £25m in 2017, he has made close to 200 Premier League appearances in that time.

Reader Responses

Selected thoughts from readers
Certain off-topic comments may be removed to keep the discussion on track

1  Dennis Stevens
05/07/2025    18:05:11

Sensible, under the circumstances.

2  Kieran Fitzgerald
06/07/2025    05:50:08

Yep, easy decision to make. Solid player in my view.

3  Paul Tran
06/07/2025    20:00:43

There'll be a few solid, unspectacular signings this summer. Keane is one of them. Good bit of continuity with the fourth-choice centre back.

4  Michael Fox
07/07/2025    11:27:12

Yep, wouldn't disagree with that decision. Good squad player, so why let him go.

5  Darren Hind
07/07/2025    13:06:22

I'm pleased with this. There is a section of the fan base for whom he can do no right. I've even seen him blamed for goals we have conceded when he wasnt on the pitch.

A better defender than some give him credit for and a very real threat in the opposition box. One less position to worry about

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