Everton show clever strategy as Jordan Pickford may face Karl Darlow threat
Everton could pull off quite the transfer coup as Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow emerges as a summer target.
The Toffees currently have Mark Travers as back-up to undisputed first-choice stopper Jordan Pickford.
Pickford may not be on top form for England at the World Cup, but he very rarely lets Everton down.
Still, a stronger back-up is required and someone who can realistically put some pressure on Pickford.
Darlow is now officially a free agent after his Leeds contract came to an end on Tuesday.
And Everton are one of the sides potentially looking to pounce for the Wales international.
Karl Darlow situation as Everton show interest
Leeds are keen to tie Darlow down to a new contract, which is entirely understandable given his importance last season.
Darlow was third choice behind Lucas Perri and Illan Meslier at the start of the past campaign, but went on to be first choice and played a big part in survival.
As per a report by Sky Sports on Wednesday, Everton and Manchester United are showing an interest in the 35-year-old.
Everton are said to be in the market for a new keeper, likely to replace Travers as second choice to Pickford.
It represents a clever transfer strategy from the Friedkin Group, given Darlow is experienced, of good quality, and of course is free.
PSR will remain in the owners' minds amid some big spending on other players, so it would represent a massive boost if a player of Darlow's ability is signed for nothing - his wages aside.
Darlow quality highlighted by recent Premier League award
Darlow started 22 games for Leeds in the Premier League last season and kept five clean sheets.
Those shutouts played a massive part in Leeds rather comfortably staying up in the end.
One of those clean sheets came in April's 3-0 win over Wolves, when Darlow produced a wonder save to keep out Ladislav Krejci.
In doing so, he landed the Premier League Save of the Month award.
And there is an argument to be had that there is no better free agent keeper out the right now to provide competition for Pickford.