Everton have started talks with both Parma and Mandela Keita’s representatives over a possible move for the midfielder this summer, according to Sky Sport Italia.
It builds on reports from last week naming the 24-year-old as one of several midfield options under consideration as David Moyes looks to strengthen that area of his squad. Sky Italy’s update suggests Everton’s interest is further along than previously thought, with contact made on both sides — the club and the player’s camp.
Keita has risen steadily since joining Parma from Royal Antwerp in 2024 for €12m, with his value now put at around €20m (£17m), though any deal is likely to cost more. Parma have no pressing need to sell, with the Belgian under contract until 2029 and not part of his country’s World Cup squad this summer.
The move would fit a wider midfield reshuffle at the Hill Dickinson. A deal for Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney is progressing and could be done this week, while Idrissa Gana Gueye remains without a new contract and Tim Iroegbunam has been linked with a £20m exit to Ipswich.
Any sale of Iroegbunam, in particular, would help fund a move for Keita.
Early stages, but one to watch as the window develops.
