This might be the weirdest transfer rumour of the summer
Ronald Koeman has wasted no time in putting forward his list of transfer targets to Barcelona. The Dutch manager was unveiled as their new manager on Tuesday and the transfer rumours are already flying about. Some, much more sensible than others.
Spanish media outlet OkDiario claim that Koeman has three top priorities in this transfer window: Donny van de Beek, which makes sense as their midfield is in dire need of some fresh blood; Memphis Depay, which also makes sense, he’s another player Koeman is familiar with from the national team and could play anywhere across their front line; and… checks notes, checks notes again… Michael Keane.
Yes, the Everton centre-back.
Now, Michael Keane is a decent player, still fairly young at 27 and has earned himself a few England caps. But Barcelona? Really?
Koeman will definitely need to strengthen his defence in this window, especially with the departure of club legend Gerard Pique a real possibility. But Michael Keane does not seem like a long-term solution.
There is a link between the player and the manager – Koeman managed Keane at Everton for a few months before being sacked, so I suppose he knows the player better than the average punter. But for a club who want to restore their status at the top of the game, it seems like a very unambitious signing.
This bizarre rumour just confirms that we are well into silly season. What’s next? Koeman going after Dominic-Calvert-Lewin as a Suarez replacement? I wouldn’t bet against it.
