Keane: I was tempted to rejoin Reds before move to Everton

MICHAEL Keane admits he was tempted to re-join United but took his ‘heart out of it’ when he decided to move to Everton.

The 24-year-old had to leave the Reds in 2014 to achieve his dream of becoming a Premier League footballer after making just five appearances for United’s first team.

Following a series of impressive displays at the back for Burnley, Keane has broken into the England squad and has now completed his £25m move to Goodison Park.

And, although he was heavily linked with a return to Old Trafford, Keane believes a move to Everton was better for his development as a first team regular.

“Of course it was a temptation [to join United],” he said.

“It’s your boyhood club. But you have got to take your heart out of it sometimes and think what’s best for you, and I feel as if this is the best place for me to come and continue my development.

“Everton is a club with such big history and a great fan base so I can’t wait to pull on the shirt and play for this club.”

Keane’s transfer fee could rise to a club record-equalling £30m, with United set to make £7.5m from the deal after inserting a 25 per cent sell-on clause.

Jose Mourinho plumped for long-term target Victor Lindelof as his key defensive signing last month.

The Sweden international completed his £30.7m move to Old Trafford after previously coming close to joining the club in January.