Everton open Mandela Keita talks as midfield rebuild accelerates

Everton have reportedly intensified their pursuit of Parma midfielder Mandela Keita after opening discussions with both the Italian club and the player's representatives.

David Moyes is expected to strengthen his midfield during the summer transfer window, and fresh reports from Italy suggest Keita has become one of Everton's leading targets as plans for a squad rebuild gather pace.

While no official bid has yet been submitted, negotiations appear to be moving beyond initial scouting.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Everton have begun discussions with both Parma and Keita's representatives to explore the possibility of a summer transfer.

The report suggests the Merseyside club's interest is more advanced than previously believed, with contacts already established on multiple fronts.

Although the value of any potential offer has not been disclosed, the conversations indicate Everton are seriously considering the Belgium international as part of their midfield overhaul.

Keita joined Parma from Royal Antwerp in 2024 for around €12 million and has continued to enhance his reputation in Serie A.

With Parma tying the midfielder to a contract until 2029, the Italian club remain under no pressure to negotiate unless Everton submit a proposal capable of changing their position.

Everton's interest in Keita comes during what is shaping up to be a busy summer in central midfield.

The Blues are already close to completing the signing of Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, while uncertainty continues to surround the futures of Idrissa Gana Gueye and Tim Iroegbunam.

Gueye has yet to agree a contract extension, while Iroegbunam has recently been linked with a move away from Goodison Park.

Despite growing Premier League interest, Parma are not expected to make negotiations straightforward.

Keita remains under a long-term contract and has become an increasingly important player since arriving in Italy.

Transfermarkt currently values the 24-year-old at around €20 million, although Parma would likely seek a higher fee if Everton decide to formalise their interest.

The Belgian is also not involved at this summer's World Cup, allowing discussions over his future to continue without international commitments delaying negotiations.

Everton are expected to continue assessing Keita's availability while progressing other midfield deals. If departures materialise over the coming weeks, particularly in central midfield, the club could be in a stronger financial position to submit a formal offer to Parma for one of Serie A's emerging midfielders.

Would Mandela Keita be the right addition to Everton's midfield alongside Hayden Hackney?