Bodo/Glimt goalkeeper Nikita Haikin could join Everton on a free transfer after holding talks with Frank Lampard when he was still the manager of Premier League giants Chelsea, a source tells Sport24.
On Sunday, Haikin announced his departure from a Bodo/Glimt outfit who, during his time between the sticks, won successive Eliteserien titles, battered Roma 6-1, and, in short, put Norwegian football on the map as far as European football is concerned.
The 27-year-old leaves, then, with the respect of admiration and goodwill of everyone at the Aspmyra Stadium.
“It has been quite a journey,” explains Haikin, who will become a free-agent in December.
“What we have achieved both in Norway, but also in Europe, is quite special. It was very difficult (to say goodbye). Sad, actually. The reception and love I got from the fans is very, very special. I can’t describe it. I am speechless.”
Will Everton sign former Chelsea target Nikita Haikin?
Haikin wants a new challenge after two years in Norway. A return to England could be on the cards for the one-time Portsmouth, Reading and Chelsea youngster, with Everton looking to replace Asmir Begovic and provide some genuine competition for Jordan Pickford between the sticks.
“I think everyone (at Bodo/Glimt) understood where I stood,” Haikin adds. “I think this is a perfect time for me to move on to challenge myself somewhere else, and step out of my comfort zone.
“I’m very grateful for the whole experience; the people I have met, the matches we have played, and for Norway as a country. I really love this country.”
Interestingly, the Isreal-born former Russia U21 international held talks with Lampard when he was still at the helm of Chelsea, a source explains to Sport24. The Toffees boss is now hoping to reunite with the one-time Blues starlet at Everton during the January transfer window.
Of course, much will depend on whether or not Lampard is still in a job come the New Year. Everton have now lost six out of their last eight games, including 4-1 and 3-0 defeats to Bournemouth in the space of only a few days.
According to HBVL, Everton are keeping tabs on Roberto Martinez’s situation. The former Toffees boss is set to leave the Belgian national team following the Qatar World Cup.
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