Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is reportedly wanted by Everton.
Sunderland’s Jordan Pickford
Pundit Jamie Redknapp has told the Daily Mail that Sunderland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has a big decision to make over his future this summer.
Pickford, 23, has come up through the ranks with Sunderland having joined the club at the age of just eight, and a superb loan spell with Preston North End last season shot him into the limelight.
This term, the former England Under-21 international has established himself as Sunderland’s first-choice goalkeeper, turning in a host of impressive performances to even earn his first England call-up.
On Saturday afternoon, Pickford was the star of the show as Sunderland beat Hull City 2-0, with the shot-stopper making a host of impressive saves to keep a clean sheet for the already-relegated Black Cats.
Sunderland’s relegation to the Championship means that some players may attract some interest during this summer’s transfer window, and Pickford is thoroughly expected to leave the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland’s Jordan Pickford celebrates
The Mirror report that Everton are the favourites to sign Pickford this summer, and whilst they may have to pay more than £20million to land him, he is allegedly seen as the first-choice goalkeeper that Ronald Koeman wants, rather than Joel Robles or Maarten Stekelenburg.
Confident, an excellent shot stopper, strong on crosses and possessing pinpoint accuracy with his passing, Pickford could be the full package between the sticks – and whilst Everton may be keen, Jamie Redknapp has offered him a warning.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Redknapp suggested that Pickford has a big decision to make, as he may be better off playing regularly for Sunderland in the Championship than sitting on the bench with a big Premier League club.
“Jordan Pickford has been a shining light in a dismal season for Sunderland. Now, the goalkeeper has a big decision to make,” said Redknapp. “Pickford will want to stay in the Premier League but he must go to a club where he will be No 1.”
“At 23, he would be better served staying in the Championship with Sunderland and becoming an even better keeper than sitting on the bench for a bigger team. Pickford is Sunderland’s prize asset. I am sure there will be clubs queuing up to sign him but he must not rush his decision,” he added.
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