Former England international Stuart Pearce has revealed his surprise at reports claiming Burnley central defender Michael Keane is set to join Everton this summer.
His comments come after the Times reported that the 24-year-old is set to complete a deal with the Merseyside club for a fee around £25million by this weekend.
Keane produced some excellent displays for Burnley during his second season in the Premier League which has attracted interest from a number of top flight teams.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Pearce believes that although it would be a great piece of business for Everton this summer, he expects another big English side to try and hijack the deal.
“I’ve got to say, if Everton get there before any of the top four, five or six, I’ll be astounded,” he said.
“If I was one of the bigger sides, I would get in and get there before Everton.
“I think if Everton get there before them they have signed an extremely good central defender that is going to improve and maybe even move on for bigger money when he eventually goes.”
Everton have been extremely busy in the transfer market this summer as they have already completed the signings of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, attacking midfielder Davy Klaassen and forward Henry Onyekuru.
Michael Keane was an important part of the Burnley squad last season as he made a total 39 appearances in all competitions, scored two goals and helped his side achieve 10 clean sheets in the Premier League.
The defender helped Burnley to survive in the top flight for the first time in their history.
Keane’s performances earned him a call up to the England national team this year and he made his international debut against Germany in an friendly match in March.