Everton surely concerned over Jordan Pickford future after David de Gea Manchester United development
Manchester United have opted against extending David de Gea’s current contract – and that could be a concern for Everton regarding Jordan Pickford’s future.
The Telegraph’s Mike McGrath reported (24 September) that Pickford was being monitored as a potential replacement for the Spaniard.
It has since been suggested (The Telegraph, 20 December) that United have decided against triggering an extension option in de Gea’s current deal, with the Old Trafford board eager for the 32-year-old to take a significant pay cut on his current £375,000-a-week wage.
It remains to be seen whether the Spaniard will accept these new terms, but considering a significant pay cut is involved, it would seem unlikely. Should his time at Old Trafford come to an end, United will be considering their goalkeeping options, and with Pickford currently in the final 18 months of his Everton deal, and one of the standout keepers in the 2022/23 season, he will more than likely be a target for Erik ten Hag.
Frank Lampard has previously suggested that the club are in talks with the 28-year-old over a new deal at Goodison Park, however, little has emerged when it comes to how successful those talks have been. The England international has proven himself at the highest level during the World Cup in Qatar, and could now be looking to test himself in the Champions League.
Ten Hag’s side are by no means shoo-ins for the Champions League, but they’re far better positioned than the Toffees at present. Pickford has been absolutely essential for the Toffees in recent seasons and losing him would be a huge blow for the board and Lampard.