Everton to offer Chelsea target massive pay rise to ward off interest

Jordan Pickford will be offered a massive new contract to stay put at Everton as the English keeper is linked with a move to Chelsea.

The Times (h/t Sun) claims that the English keeper is our priority target if Real Madrid sign Thibaut Courtois this season.

The Belgian keeper has been linked with a return to Madrid, as he did spend time with Atletico a few years ago. Courtois also has just one year left on his contract and that could be a solid reason for us to sell him ahead of the season.

Pickford was one of the best keepers in the World Cup as England finished fourth in the tournament. The former Sunderland man joined Everton only at the start of last season after the Black Cats were relegated from the Premier League.

Maurizio Sarri must be impressed by Pickford’s performances in the World Cup and a move for the Englishman would not be a bad deal. However, he would cost a bunch, given his contract with Everton at the moment.

It is also tough to claim that Pickford would be an upgrade over Courtois as the Belgian is one of the best in the world, while Pickford has had his issues during his time at Everton.

The Englishman would be a low-risk keeper when compared to others who have not played in the Premier League and it will be interesting to see just how our goalkeeping position works out this season.

Read more: Maurizio Sarri planning to hand captain’s armband to keep hold of £180m superstar

Sarri has a lot of work at hand before the transfer window slams shut and there could be a few more deals that take place before the season starts.