Alex Crook tips Manchester United takeover to play role in Jordan Pickford Everton exit live on talkSPORT
Alex Crook believes the takeover of Manchester United could play a role in their transfer pursuit of Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford this summer.
Newspaper journalist Alan Nixon shared (11 June) that the Red Devils wanted to sign the Toffees shot-stopper regardless of whether David De Gea leaves or not, and that the 29-year-old would “jump at the chance” to seal a transfer to Old Trafford.
Speaking live on talkSPORT Breakfast, Crook admitted that Everton would demand a large fee for the England No.1 and that the takeover scenario at Manchester United, which saw the Qataris place their last offer to buy the club on 7 June, could decide whether the goalkeeper is signed in the summer transfer window. [The Times]
He said: “It’s not going to be a cheap deal to do this because Pickford signed a new contract mid-way through last season, so again, I think they would be looking at David Raya-type money, and I just wonder whether that is the area where Manchester United really need to strengthen.
“I think Pickford would be a good addition. I think Ten Hag likes Pickford, he likes the profile.
“I guess, maybe it could maybe depend on this takeover [of Manchester United], and we’re expecting developments there in terms of how much they have to spend in the summer.”
Key to Dyche
If Sean Dyche is going to turn around the ship at Everton, he will need Pickford in between the sticks.
The former Sunderland player was in typically bullish form during the relegation run-in, pulling off a superb penalty stop in the crunch clash against Leicester City and numerous other brilliant saves in the closing games of the season.
His stock continues to rise with every passing season, and it is no wonder that England manager Gareth Southgate has stayed so loyal to him over the years.
From a Manchester United standpoint, signing a goalkeeper isn’t likely to be their number one priority this summer, with a number nine, further midfield reinforcements and another centre-back on their summer shopping list.
However, if the Qatari’s bid to take control of Manchester United is accepted, then the Toffees will be extremely fearful that their star asset could be taken out of their hands this summer.