Liverpool are believed to be in the race for signing £30million rated Burnley centre-half Michael Keane according to reports from ESPN. Michael Keane has been one of the best defenders in the league this season and was nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year award.
It has been reported that Liverpool are closing in on the deal and have joined a host of clubs like Everton and Manchester United expressing their interest in the Clarets defender. Keane is a product of the Manchester United youth academy and left the club in 2015, to join Burnley, after having joined them on loan earlier in 2014.
Keane will have to be convinced to return to the club he joined as a schoolboy after being left unhappy with the way his departure was handled by former boss Louis van Gaal.
It has given Liverpool the upper hand in a transfer battle that could yet include Manchester City and Everton.
The 24-year old has been one of the major reasons as to why Burnley have managed to stay afloat in the mid-table region and their home form is a fair reflection of his contribution this season. The Englishman has made 38 appearances for the Clarets this term and has scored 2 goals and provided an assist. In the 3420 minutes that he has played this season, he has been booked just 4 times and this indicates his composure and maturity beyond his age.
The Kop Times Verdict
Liverpool’s problems at the back have been evident this campaign, as they have the worst defensive record among the top-6 clubs in the Premier League table. The Kop have been defensively vulnerable all season and this has affected the league campaign adversely.
However, the Reds have a great chance of finishing in the top-4, despite a frustrating 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace and will be eager to beat Watford and get things back on track.
Keane would be a perfect fit for Liverpool, considering his age and his nationality. He is English and is looking like an extremely capable player. Klopp has had to manage with playing Lucas Leiva as a centre-half this season and Keane would be a valuable addition at the back considering the lack of quality.
Joel Matip looks to be at ease while Lovren has been good in patches. The same has been the case with Klavan too, who has not nailed down a starting spot either. Adding Keane to the ranks will solve the problem of squad depth for Liverpool, as the chances of playing in Europe still presents itself.
Do you think Michael Keane would be a good addition for Liverpool?
