Everton set for ‘damaging exit’ as Man Utd are among Premier League trio plotting ‘landmark transfer’

Everton are reportedly bracing themselves to lose Jordan Pickford this summer with Man Utd among the clubs interested in the England goalkeeper.

Pickford has previously come under fire for his performances for Everton, but he has consistently shone for England as he has been trusted by Gareth Southgate to play at a couple of major tournaments.

The 28-year-old has also been coming into his own in an Everton shirt as he has arguably been their best player over the past two seasons.

This is despite the Toffees struggling around the relegation places in the Premier League. They just about did enough to stay up last term but they are currently 18th in the table under new boss Sean Dyche.

The ex-Burnley boss got off to a great start as he guided his team to a 1-0 win over league leaders Arsenal last week.

Pickford may leave Everton even if they manage to avoid relegation. His contract is up in 2024 so they may be forced to cash in on him this summer so they do not lose him on a free transfer.

Graeme Bailey is reporting that Everton are ‘braced for a damaging exit’ with Pickford ready for a ‘landmark transfer’ elsewhere.

He has told TEAMtalk that Man Utd, Chelsea and Tottenham are all “admirers” of the England international.

“Goalkeeping situations in the Premier League are going to be one of the fascinating subjects in the summer window and one of the main protagonists is set to be Jordan Pickford,” Bailey told TEAMtalk.

“Pickford has less than 18 months left on his current deal at Everton and although a new deal has been discussed, it is not imminent.

“Despite Everton’s struggles in recent years there is little doubting Pickford’s quality and he has kept his England slot which signals the regard he is held in, and not only by England boss Gareth Southgate.

“As it stands, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Manchester United could all be on the look out for new number ones and Pickford is admired by them all.

“Pickford is about to turn 29 and if he wants a big move, this summer could very well be his big chance.”

Man Utd may need a new goalkeeper in the summer as David De Gea’s contract expires in the summer. Chelsea meanwhile have Kepa Arrizabalaga and Edouard Mendy, but both players have struggled at different times in recent seasons.

Tottenham’s current number one is Hugo Lloris but it is being reported that the Londoners are ready to replace him this summer.

Brentford’s David Raya could also be on the move this summer, with Thomas Frank insisting that he is valued at over £40m.

“I hope he will stay forever but it looks like it could be difficult with the contract situation,” Frank said.

“He must be at least £40m plus. If he had three years it would be £70m.

“How much was Kepa? He is at least as good as him.”

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