This could have implications for David de Gea.
Everton are close to agreeing a transfer for Jordan Pickford from Sunderland, according to the Daily Telegraph. The 23-year-old, who impressed with the relegated Black Cats last season, will cost £30m.
Pickford, who is currently on international duty with England’s under-21 team, will become the third most expensive goalkeeper in football history should the deal go through.
Manchester City’s new signing Ederson recently cost £34.7m and Gianluigi Buffon cost Juventus £33m back in 2001.
The report claims Everton had their original bid rejected, but are now close to reaching an agreement. The player will complete his medical when he returns from the European Under-21 Championship in Poland.
Pickford won’t face much competition for the starting spot at Goodison Park. Neither Joel Robles or Maarten Stekelenburg fully convinced for Ronald Koeman’s side last season.
Pickford is renowned for his shot stopping and distribution. David Preece, the former Aberdeen goalkeeper turned football pundit, rates the 23-year-old very highly.
Without question. He's the real deal. Today was the best I've seen him.
— David Preece (@davidpreece12) May 6, 2017
The transfer could also have implications for David de Gea. The Manchester United goalkeeper is reportedly wanted by Real Madrid again, after his move to the La Liga side collapsed in the final minutes of the transfer window in 2015.
De Gea is widely considered to be one of the world’s best goalkeepers, along with Buffon and Manuel Neuer.
If Pickford, a talented ‘keeper, but with just one season of first-team action in the Premier League under his belt, is worth £30m in the current market, how much will Madrid have to pay United for De Gea?
Our guess would be at least double that fee.
