According to talkSPORT, Newcastle United are interested in signing Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
Pickford would be a fantastic signing for the Magpies. After all, he is the England number one and he’s proven himself at Premier League level for many years now.
However, there may be one slight problem when it comes to signing Pickford… He’s a Sunderland lad.
Indeed, Pickford grew up as a supporter of the Black Cats and he famously came through their academy.
To this day, the Toon Army get on Pickford’s back whenever the stopper visits St James’ Park, and the goalie has previously gone on the record to speak about being affected by the Newcastle fanbase.
What’s Pickford said about Newcastle fans?
Pickford spoke about Newcastle’s fanbase after a win with Everton in 2019.
“You always try and enjoy it on the pitch, and today I just blocked the Newcastle fans out and showed focus. I thought my mentality was top drawer and that got me through the game,” Pickford said.
“Of course I could hear everything the fans said. Whereas last time I took the bait, I was determined not to this time. I didn’t even look at the fans – I just kept my head down throughout the game.
“Last year was a bad experience, this one was a good one – although I don’t think I broke into a smile until after the final whistle. I can enjoy it now.
“For someone like me getting a result here means everything considering I played for Sunderland and the stick I get.”
“Today was about my character and my mentality. I’m happy I showed good character out there. I think I showed I don’t get affected by fans these days.”
Bad idea
Pickford signing for Newcastle might be a bad idea for all involved.
Yes, he’s a great goalkeeper and yes he’d improve the Magpies, but if he joined, he probably still wouldn’t be accepted by the fanbase and he’d never be able to show his face in Sunderland again.
Pickford has other options, Tottenham are reportedly very interested, and Newcastle have the money to go out and get another goalkeeper who could be just as good as Pickford.
Perhaps this transfer idea should be abandoned before it even gets off of the ground.
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