Everton Open Talks to Sign Parma Midfielder Mandela Keita

Everton have reportedly opened talks to sign Parma midfielder Mandela Keita, starting contact with both the club and player ahead of a possible move in the summer.

Everton were linked with a move to sign the 24-year-old last week, with the Toffees reportedly interested in signing a new number six. 

David Moyes and his recruitment team are seemingly prioritising midfield additions this summer and have also agreed a £16.5m deal to sign Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney. 

It's been a busy week for the Toffees, with a report from The Athletic also confirming that Everton are progressing in talks to sign Chelsea winger Tyrique George. The England youth international spent the second half of last season on loan at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and he's set to join once again, with a deal potentially concluded this week. 

According to Sky Sports in Italy, Everton's interest in Parma midfielder Keita has gone a step further. 

It was Sky Sports in England who initially reported the interest in Keita, but Sky Italy have opened talks with both Parma and the midfielder about a potential move. 

It's claimed that the deal would likely cost more than €20 million, and he appears to be firmly in their eye line for the summer transfer window. 

Keita made the move to Parma back in 2024, joining the club from Royal Antwerp in his home country. 

The 24-year-old has made one appearance for Belgium, but he failed to make the squad for the World Cup in America. 

Keita is a strong physical midfielder who is comfortable with the ball at his feet. 

The defensive side of his game is his strongest aspect, while he's also comfortable at keeping the game ticking over in terms of his passing ability. 

Out of possession, Keita likes to sit in front of the back four and protect. He's also not afraid to carry the ball from deep, using his long legs to stride away from the opposition. 

Keita is more of a defensive midfielder than someone like Hackney, who is more likely to play in an advanced role and get into the final third to help Everton create and score goals. 

For a full and more detailed breakdown of what Keita is capable of and the data behind him, check out the article below where I go in depth on the midfielder.