Tottenham line up Everton keeper Jordan Pickford as main summer transfer objective
Tottenham are ready to move on from Hugo Lloris and have identified Everton keeper Jordan Pickford as their top priority, according to Tutto Mercato Web.
The Frenchman turns 36 on Boxing Day and Spurs have been considering life after Les Bleus’ captain retires for some time, with Pickford one of a few names linked.
But it appears that Antonio Conte’s side have decided they want to replace Lloris with his opponent in the World Cup quarter final and have chosen Pickord as their “main objective” in the summer.
The Toffees have been discussing a new contract with their number one for some time, as yet without a resolution, but based on the Tutto Mercato Web report they could have a second consecutive battle with Spurs on their hands after Richarlison’s sale in the summer.
Locked on
He may attract endless criticism whenever he makes an error but Pickford is a vital part of the Everton squad, both for his play and his leadership.
The club are going to need to speed up with the contract talks if they want to keep him long term as the Richarlison saga showed what happens when an important player’s deal reaches the point past which their value plummets.
It is an ongoing concern that as England starter in the latter stages of major tournaments Pickford might get itchy feet playing at Goodison if he is engaged in relegation battles.
He was crucial in helping the team over the line last season but the Premier League table currently suggests a repeat may be needed, without a significant upturn in form after the World Cup break.
Trophies have been thin on the ground at Tottenham but they are regularly in the Champions League these days, so if word comes through to Pickford’s agent that they are pursuing him with intent it might make things difficult for Everton.
The stakes are increasing on Pickford’s future, and while there is no evidence that he is angling himself towards the exit, speculation will remain unless or until he signs a new deal.
And the closer to the end of the campaign we get without that the greater the chances it is his last one for the Toffees, with doubts over the long-term starters position at Manchester United in addition as David de Gea’s contract runs down.