Everton would pull off a 'coup' by getting '£5m' for Michael Keane from West Ham

Michael Keane would have been a good signing for West Ham United this summer as Everton make decision on last-gasp move.

That is according to former senior Everton scout, Bryan King, speaking exclusively to Football Insider.

The Toffees reportedly turned down an enquiry from the Hammers about a potential late deal for the 33-year-old.

Keane undoubtedly would have had to be replaced by Everton, and his exit could have allowed Jake O'Brien to step into the middle.

The Ireland international had been linked with an exit in the final days of the window and has not appeared for a single minute this season, but now looks set to stay at the club.

The same goes for Keane, who is expected to support Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski this season.

Michael Keane exit could be a 'good move'

Everton's defensive planning this summer will not be something studied in a hurry by other clubs.

The Toffees came into the window with an ageing and injury-struck defence, which was a further one light with the departure of Seamus Coleman.

As of transfer deadline day, Everton are still yet to add a single defender, although a £4million deal for Ainsley Maitland-Niles appears to be edging closer.

Nathan Patterson appears to be leaving, also, with David Moyes set to have even less defensive options than he did last season.

He will retain Keane, however, likely much to the disappointment of West Ham.

"I've always thought the boy Keane is more suited to a lower Premiership, top Championship team than he would be in a top four team in the Premier League, King told Football Insider.

"He's honest, good player, that could be a good move. If they can get £10m for him, they've done well, because he's no youngster, is he? 

"If they could, anywhere between £5-10m would be a coup. And I think West Ham, he'd be suited for West Ham. Experienced, strong."

Everton's defensive situation remains perilous

The emergence of Merlin Rohl as an option at right-back has eased tensions over Everton's defence slightly.

The German has performed well there and would allow O'Brien to cover as a centre-back.

Should Everton be hit by one or two injuries, however, they would start to find themselves in a difficult position.

Moyes has just one senior, natural left-back to call upon, and is relying almost entirely on his team's ability to stay fit.