Chelsea have been paired with a move for Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, but they may suffer a transfer blow as he’s expected to hold contract talks with the Toffees.
The England international saw his stock rise significantly over the summer after his starring role in their run to the World Cup semi-finals, while he impressed in his debut campaign at Goodison Park too.
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In turn, it’s no surprise that he might attract interest this summer, but as noted by Sky Sports, although it’s claimed that Chelsea have set their sights on him as a potential replacement for Thibaut Courtois if he secures a move to Real Madrid, Everton are planning to throw a spanner in the works by offering their No.1 goalkeeper a new contract.
Still only 24 years of age, Pickford has a bright future ahead of him for club and country, but it remains to be seen whether or not he pens a new contract to keep him at Everton or if he considers an exit to join Chelsea who arguably offer him the better chance of winning trophies moving forward.
Ultimately, Chelsea’s pursuit would appear to hinge on whether or not Courtois leaves to open up the role at Stamford Bridge, and so it remains to be seen whether or not that first happens.
Nevertheless, given Pickford’s shot-stopping ability and his technical quality on the ball, he would arguably be an ideal option for Maurizio Sarri who enjoys a possession-based game playing expansive football.
Having a goalkeeper like Pickford between the posts could allow them to play out from the back more easily, which seems to be a particularly important trait amongst goalkeepers in the modern game.
Time will tell if the England international opts to put pen to paper on a new deal or pursue a move elsewhere, but with the transfer deadline fast approaching, Chelsea don’t have much time to act if Courtois leaves.