Exclusive: Everton make Keane contract decision after Tarkowski twist
James Tarkowski’s injury will not have an impact on Michael Keane’s future at Everton, sources have told Football Insider.
Keane, 32, is out of contract on Merseyside in June – potentially ending his eight-year spell at the club.
The experienced centre-back was a regular at the start of the 2024-25 campaign under Sean Dyche but has barely featured under David Moyes.
Tarkowski could miss the start of the 2025-26 season after undergoing surgery on a hamstring injury – but that twist is unlikely to mean a reprieve for Keane at Everton.
Keane set to leave Everton despite Tarkowski injury
The former England international is set to be let go as a free agent, while Moyes’ side plan to delve into the transfer market for defensive reinforcements this summer.
Keane’s latest disappointment came when Jake O’Brien, who had been playing at right-back, came into the heart of the defence against Chelsea last week (26 April) in place of Tarkowski.
| Appearances | 227 |
| Minutes Played | 19113 |
| Goals | 15 |
| Assists | 10 |
| Yellow Cards | 23 |
| Red Cards | 1 |
He has made 15 appearances across all competitions for Everton this term, notching two goals.
Keane joined the club from Burnley in 2017 for a reported fee of £30million after add-ons but has failed to live up to that price tag.
Everton open talks over Gueye deal
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (28 April) that Everton are in talks with midfielder Idrissa Gueye over a new contract.
Like Keane, the 35-year-old’s current deal is set to expire in June – but sources say the Toffees are expected to extend the midfielder’s stay at the club.
Gueye has been ever-present since Moyes‘ return to Everton earlier this year.
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