Everton have rejected a Deadline Day enquiry from West Ham United for Michael Keane, with the experienced defender now expected to remain at the Hill Dickinson.
According to The Athletic’s Paddy Boyland, Everton were approached by West Ham over the possibility of signing Keane on a permanent deal.
The Toffees rejected the enquiry, and the 33-year-old is now expected to stay.
With only hours remaining before the transfer window closes, Everton would have had little time to find a suitable replacement had they allowed Keane to leave.
Keane staying at Everton
Keane is now into his tenth season with Everton after joining from Burnley in the summer of 2017.
His future has been the subject of plenty of discussion during that time, but he signed a new one-year contract in April which keeps him at the club until June 2027.
The former England international has yet to feature in the Premier League this season, remaining on the bench against Crystal Palace and Bournemouth.
He did, however, play the full 90 minutes as Everton beat Preston 4-0 in the Carabao Cup.
Keane may not currently be first choice under David Moyes, but his experience provides useful depth behind Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski.
Jake O’Brien can also operate centrally, although he has increasingly been used elsewhere across the back line.
Given the timing of West Ham’s approach, Everton’s decision is understandable.
Selling a senior centre-back on Deadline Day would only make sense if Moyes already had a replacement lined up.
Instead, Keane looks set to remain part of the squad for at least the first half of the season.
For updates on the Toffees throughout the season, take a look at our LIVE! Premier League 2026/27 News, Transfers, Updates & Viral Moments page.
